Raw Banana Raita is a refreshing South Indian–style accompaniment that perfectly balances flavour and comfort. Made with tender, cooked raw bananas, fresh curd, coconut, and green chillies, it offers a cooling contrast to spicy meals. Finished with a fragrant tempering in Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil, this raita is light, soothing, and packed with traditional flavours. Best served chilled, it makes an excellent side for rice-based dishes or festive meals.

Ingredients

  • 2 raw bananas
  • 2 cups fresh curd
  • 1 big piece coconut, chopped
  • 4 green chillies
  • 1 teaspoon roasted jeera powder
  • 1 small piece ginger, grated
  • 1 small bowl coriander leaves
  • Salt to taste

For tempering:

  • 1 teaspoon Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil
  • ½ teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 10–15 curry leaves
  • 4 whole dry red chillies

Method

  • Peel and chop the raw bananas. Pressure cook them with water until one whistle. Allow to cool.
  • In a mixer, grind chopped coconut, green chillies, coriander leaves, and 2 tablespoons of fresh curd into a smooth paste.
  • Transfer the boiled bananas to a large bowl and gently mash them.
  • Add the prepared coconut paste and mix well.
  • Stir in the remaining curd, salt, roasted cumin powder, and grated ginger. Mix until smooth and well combined.
  • For tempering, heat Freedom Refined Sunflower Oil in a small kadai.
  • Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add curry leaves and whole red chillies, sauté for a few seconds, and remove from heat.
  • Pour the tempering over the raita and mix gently.
  • Refrigerate for some time before serving.

Serve chilled with steamed rice, rasam, sambar, or spicy South Indian curries.