Plantain mezhkkupuratti, also known as ethakka mezhukkupuratti, is a Kerala vegetarian side dish or stir-fry made with raw plantains. Mezhukkupuratti means “coated with oil,” and it is a simple yet flavorful preparation of plantains that are stir-fried with a few basic ingredients.
This dish is known for its delicious blend of flavors, with the spiciness of green chilies and the richness of coconut oil complementing the mild sweetness of the plantains. It makes for a perfect accompaniment to a traditional Kerala lunch.
- Coconut oil- 1½ tbsp
- Mustard seeds- 1 tsp
- Dried red chilies, halved- 2
- Curry leaves- 1 sprig
- Shallots, sliced- 3 large shallots or 6 small/pearl onions
- Green chilies, halved- 2
- Turmeric powder- ½ tsp
- Raw plantain, diced- 2
- Salt- 1½ tsp
- Warm water- ½ cup
- Use raw plantains for making this, dice up the plantains.
- Place a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add coconut oil, let turn hot.
- Add mustard seeds, let splutter.
- Add dried red chilies & curry leaves.
- Add shallots or pearl/small onions, season with ½ tsp salt.
- Add green chilies, saute till shallots turn golden in color.
- Add turmeric powder, saute for a few seconds.
- Add the diced plantains, combine well.
- Add ½ cup warm water & cook covered till the plantains turn soft.
- Open the lid, and stir fry over high heat till plantains turn slightly browned.
- Take the pan off the heat & keep it covered for a few minutes.
- Enjoy as a side dish along with rice.