Vazhaipoo Vadai: The Crispy Banana Flower Fritters of Tamil Nadu

Vazhaipoo Vadai – Banana Flower Recipe

Banana flower is as valued in Indian cooking as the fruit and leaves, and in Tamil Nadu it becomes vazhaipoo vadai — crisp, soft fritters made with chana dal, onion, ginger, green chilies, curry leaves, and whole spices. The dal is ground to a semi-fine paste without water so the patties hold their shape, then deep-fried until golden. Vegan, gluten free, and best served hot with coconut chutney.