Unni thandu upperi

The Plantain tree stem (also called as Vazhai thandu in Tamil) is highly nutritious, rich in fibre content and improves bowel movement.

Ingredients:

Unni thandu – 500 grams

Coconut (grated)– 50 grams

Cumin/jeera – 10 grams

Red chillies – 4 nos

Green chillies – 2 nos

Pepper – 2 grams

Turmeric powder and Salt to taste

For tempering

Mustard – 5 grams

Urad dal – 5 grams

Curry leaves

Oil

Method:

• Chop the unni thandu into small pieces. Remove the fibers while doing so and soak it in water mixed with one spoon of buttermilk.
• I pressure cooked the chopped unni thandu with salt, turmeric powder and green chillies for one whistle.
• Grind the coconut, cumin/jeera, red chillies and pepper without adding water.
• In a kadai, heat oil and add mustard. When the mustard splutters add urad dal and curry leaves. Fry for a minute.
• Add the ground coconut and fry for 4-5 minutes.
• Now add the cooked unni thandu, mix well and leave it for about a minute.

Unni thandu upperi is ready!! This side dish is a nice combination with sambar or rasam.