Kelya Pathali is a cherished Konkani delicacy, traditionally prepared on Sayana Ekadasi, when rice is typically avoided for religious reasons. This steamed treat combines ripe bananas, jaggery, coconut, and the fragrant warmth of cardamom, all cocooned within the subtle earthiness of banana leaves. The result is a naturally sweet, soft, and aromatic dessert that’s as festive as it is wholesome.
Making Kelya Pathali is an immersive experience—soaked urid dal batter is spread on cured banana leaves, filled with a luscious mixture of caramelized jaggery, coconut, and fresh banana, then folded and gently steamed. These parcels are perfect for breakfast or as a special tea-time snack, offering comforting nostalgia and authentic coastal flavor in every bite.
Kelya Pathali (Steamed Banana Delicacy in Banana Leaf)
Print RecipeIngredients
- Ripe banana - 250g
- Jaggery - 150g
- Urid dal (instead of rice) - 150g
- Fresh coconut - 1 medium, grated
- Cardamom powder - 1 tsp
- Salt - 1/2 tsp
Instructions
Rinse urid dal thoroughly and soak for 3 hours. Grind into a thick, smooth batter with minimal water.
In a pan, combine jaggery and grated coconut. Cook on medium flame until the mixture thickens, then remove from heat.
Dice the ripe banana into small pieces and add to the coconut-jaggery mixture. Stir in cardamom powder for aroma.
Blend salt into the urid dal batter.
Quickly cure banana leaves by holding each above an open flame until softened. Wipe with oil to prevent sticking.
Spread a thin layer of dal batter onto a piece of greased banana leaf. Place a couple of tablespoons of the banana-coconut filling in the center.
Fold the leaf securely to enclose the filling. Repeat with remaining batter and mixture.
Arrange the prepared parcels in a steamer or a cooker separator. Steam for about 10 minutes or until firm.
Cool slightly, unwrap, and serve warm.
Notes
Tips:
Ensure the urid dal batter is thick for easier spreading., Lightly oil the banana leaves for effortless removal post-steaming., Banana leaves are fragile; curing over a flame softens and prevents tearing during folding., For extra aroma, use well-ripened bananas and freshly grated coconut., Leftovers can be gently reheated by steaming to revive their softness.
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