Andhra-style Raw Banana and Meat Curry

Ingredients

In the original Tanzanian dish, Ndizi na nyama, the raw bananas are cooked with meat in a coconut milk-based sauce. However, in this Andhra adaptation, we use a different combination of spices and flavors to create a unique taste profile. The Andhra-style Raw Banana and Meat Curry features a spicier and tangier gravy, with the addition of tamarind pulp for a distinct sourness. The use of Andhra spices such as red chili powder and coriander adds a fiery kick and a vibrant color to the dish, giving it an authentic Andhra touch. We alse have the original recipe for Ndizi na nyama, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) boneless meat (mutton or chicken), cut into pieces 500g (1.1 lb) boneless meat (mutton or chicken), cut into pieces
• 2 raw bananas, peeled and sliced 2 raw bananas, peeled and sliced
• 2 onions, finely chopped 2 onions, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 2 tablespoons oil 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon red chili powder 1 tablespoon red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon coriander powder 1 tablespoon coriander powder
• 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 5g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat oil in a large pan or kadai over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Allow them to splutter.
3. 3.
   Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
4. 4.
   Add the meat pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides.
5. 5.
   Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Mix well.
6. 6.
   Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the masala.
7. 7.
   Add the sliced raw bananas and tamarind pulp. Mix gently.
8. 8.
   Add salt to taste and enough water to cover the meat and bananas.
9. 9.
   Cover the pan and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the raw bananas are cooked.
10. 10.
    Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
11. 11.
    Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Raw bananas — Make sure to choose raw bananas that are firm and slightly green. Avoid overripe bananas as they will become mushy during cooking.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier curry, increase the amount of red chili powder according to your taste preference.
• Adjust the amount of tamarind pulp based on your desired level of tanginess.
• Marinating the meat with yogurt and spices for a few hours before cooking can enhance the flavors and tenderize the meat.
• If raw bananas are not available, you can substitute with plantains or green bananas.

Serving advice

Serve the Andhra-style Raw Banana and Meat Curry hot with steamed rice or roti. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for added freshness and aroma.

Presentation advice

Present the curry in a deep serving dish, allowing the vibrant colors of the meat, bananas, and gravy to shine through. Sprinkle some chopped coriander leaves on top for an appealing touch.