Sharkara Varatti | Sarkara Varatti | Sweet Banana With Jaggery – Video

Delight in the Traditional Taste of Sharkara Varatti

Introduction to Sharkara Varatti

Sharkara Varatti, also known as Sarkara Varatti or Sweet Banana with Jaggery is a traditional Kerala delicacy that perfectly captures the essence of the region’s culinary heritage. This sweet snack is a staple in every Kerala household, especially during festive occasions like Onam. Made from raw banana or plantain coated with jaggery, the dish offers a delightful blend of sweetness and crunch, making it a beloved treat among all age groups.

The Cultural Significance

Sharkara Varatti holds a special place in the hearts of Keralites. This sweet snack is an integral part of the Onam Sadya, the grand feast that marks the harvest festival of Onam. The dish symbolizes prosperity and joy, as it is prepared with ingredients that are easily available during the harvest season. The preparation of the sweet snack (Sharkara Upperi), is an art in itself, with the jaggery syrup perfectly caramelized to coat each banana slice, ensuring a rich and consistent flavor in every bite.

Why Sharkara Varatti is a Must-Try

For those who appreciate traditional sweets, the dish is a must-try. The combination of crispy banana slices and the deep, earthy sweetness of jaggery creates a snack that is both satisfying and wholesome. Jaggery, being a natural sweetener, adds a unique flavor that is not only delicious but also healthier compared to refined sugar. Additionally, bananas are rich in potassium and fiber, making the snack a nutritious choice for those looking to indulge in a guilt-free treat.

Conclusion

Sharkara Varatti is more than just a snack, it’s a journey into the rich culinary traditions of Kerala. Whether you’re enjoying it as part of an Onam Sadya or as a sweet treat during tea time, this dish offers an authentic taste of Kerala that is hard to resist. Experience the unique flavors of this traditional delicacy and bring a piece of Kerala into your home with every bite of Sharkara Varatti.

Sharkara Varatti | Sarkara Varatti | Sweet Banana With Jaggery - Video

Sharkara Varatti is a traditional Kerala delicacy that perfectly captures the essence of the region's culinary heritage.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Snack

Cuisine Kerala

Servings 4 people

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 2 Nos. Unripe Plantains (Medium sized) Ethakka
• 150 g Jaggery Sharkkara
• 1/2 Glass Sour Curd
• 250 g Coconut Oil

For Preparing Spice Mix:

• 6 Nos. Cardamom Elakka
• 1 Tsp Cumin seeds Jeerakam
• 1 Tsp Dry Ginger powder Chukku
• 2 Tbsp Sugar

Instructions

 

• For preparing the tasty snack, first peel off the skin of the plantains.
  
• To remove stain, immerse in turmeric and salt mixed water for 30 minutes.(Optional: You can also pour sour curd into water to get rid of the plantains serum)
  
• After 30 minutes, scrape the banana with a spoon to remove stains.
  
• Cut the banana in half and make quarter inch pieces. Put it back in the turmeric water and leave it for 15 minutes to remove the stains.
  
• Drain the banana. Clean few times with water.
  

For Frying Banana:

• Heat a kadai on medium flame and add enough coconut oil to fry the banana pieces.
  
• Once oil is hot, add the banana pieces. Reduce flame to low.
  
• It will take around 10 minutes to become golden in LOW flame. Increase the flame to MEDIUM at the end and remove the pieces when crispy.
  
• Let it cool.
  

To Prepare Spice Mix:

• Take 1 Tsp Cumin Seeds in a mixer.
  
• Add 1 Tsp dried ginger powder(Chukku).
  
• Add 6 nos. cardamon and 2 tbsp sugar. Grind and powder it. Keep this aside.
  

To Prepare Jaggery Syrup:

• Add 150g jaggery to a pan and add 1/2 cup water. Boil it.
  
• Once the jaggery has fully melted, strain the syrup to a kadai. Boil and make the syrup little thick.
  
• Add 1 Tbsp of the prepared spice powder and mix well in low flame.
  
• Stir in the fried banana chips and mix well until the pieces are coated well with the jaggery syrup. Again add rest of the spice powder and mix well.
  
• Switch off, mix well and coat well. If the pieces are sticking, separate them. Enjoy Sharkara Varatti.
  
• Enjoy the tasty and nutritious snack dish with a cup of hot tea. This is one of the most popular snack dishes in Kerala.

Video

Notes

You can visit this link for an easy snack Besan Murukku. You can also visit this link Carrot Milk Burfi. 

Keyword Sarkara Varatti, Sharkara Varatti, Sweet Banana With Jaggery

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