Unnakaya is a famous Malabar snack made with ripe bananas, filled with a delicious coconut mixture, shaped and fried until golden. It is crispy outside, soft inside, and perfect for tea time or special occasions like Ramadan.
Unnakaya is a traditional snack from the Malabar region of Kerala. It is prepared using ripe bananas, usually Kerala nendran bananas, and stuffed with a sweet coconut filling. The outer layer becomes crispy after frying while the inside remains soft and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe nendran bananas
For the Filling
- 1 cup grated coconut
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons chopped cashews
- 2 tablespoons raisins
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 1 teaspoon ghee
For Frying
- Oil as required
Preparation Method
Step 1: Cook the Bananas
Steam or boil the ripe bananas until soft. Remove the skin and mash them smoothly while still warm.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Heat ghee in a pan. Add cashews and raisins and sauté until golden.
Add grated coconut and sugar. Cook for 2–3 minutes on low flame.
Finally add cardamom powder and mix well. Let the filling cool completely.
Step 3: Shape the Unnakaya
Take a small portion of mashed banana and flatten it on your palm.
Place some coconut filling in the center and carefully seal it. Shape into a cylindrical roll.
Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
Step 4: Fry Until Golden
Heat oil in a pan over medium flame.
Fry the prepared unnakaya until golden brown on all sides.
Remove and drain on tissue paper.
Serve hot with tea or coffee. Unnakaya tastes best in the evening as a tea-time snack.
Tips for Perfect Unnakaya
- Use fully ripe nendran bananas for best sweetness and texture.
- Do not overfill the rolls to avoid breaking while frying.
- Fry on medium flame for even cooking.
- You can also add chopped dates to the filling for extra taste.
Conclusion
Unnakaya is a delicious and traditional Malabar snack loved by people of all ages. The combination of sweet banana and coconut filling makes it incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Try this easy homemade recipe and enjoy a classic Kerala tea-time favorite.
