Unnakaya

 How to Make Unnakaya:

 A Delicious Malabar Snack

                                                            

Unnakaya is one of the favorite traditional snacks of the Malabar region of Kerala, especially enjoyed by the Muslim community. The sweet, deep-fried snack is made with ripe bananas, or plantains, stuffed with a mixture of coconut, sugar, and nuts. It's perfect for iftar, tea-time, or special occasions because it's nutritious and delicious.

If you’ve ever wanted to make unnakaya at home, follow this simple step-by-step guide.

Ingredients

For the Outer Layer:

• 3 ripe plantains (nenthrapazham)

• 1 tbsp ghee

• A pinch of salt

For the Filling:

• ½ cup grated coconut                

• ¼ cup sugar (adjust according to taste)

• 2 tbsp chopped cashew nuts                   

• 1 tbsp raisins

• ½ tsp cardamom powder

• 1 tbsp ghee

• 1 egg (optional, for a richer taste)

For Frying:

• Oil (for deep frying)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Plantain Dough

1. Peel the ripe plantains and steam them for about 10–15 minutes until soft.

2. Once cooled, remove any seeds and mash the bananas into a smooth dough. You can add a pinch of salt for taste.

3. Add a tablespoon of ghee and knead the mixture well. Set aside.

Step 2: Making the Sweet Coconut Filling

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a pan.

2. Add the chopped cashew nuts and raisins, and sauté until they turn golden brown.

3. Add the grated coconut and sugar, mix well

4. Sprinkle cardamom powder for a fragrant touch.

5. Optional:Beat an egg and add it to the mixture, stirring continuously until well combined. This step increases the richness of the filling.

6. When the whole contents blend well, turn off the stove, and let the filling cool down.

Step 3: The Unnakaya Preparation

1. Measure out a small amount of the mashed banana mixture and flatten it in your palm.

2.  Place a spoonful of the coconut filling in the center.

3.  Carefully fold and shape it into a cylindrical or oval form, sealing the edges properly.

4.  Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.

Step 4: Fried Unnakaya

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.

2. Unnakay could gently be released into the heated oil, allowing them to fry until the color turns golden brown while stirring frequently.

3. Sizzling and fried evenly, pull them out from the oil and place them on a paper towel for the excess oil to be drained.

Serving Suggestions

Unnakaya is best served when hot with a cup of hot chai or black tea. A drizzle of honey and powdered sugar can be added on top for extra sweetness.

This is a traditional Malabar snack, not only tasty but also an excellent way to use ripe plantains creatively. Try making unnakaya at home and taste the richness of Kerala's culinary heritage!

Have you ever tried making unnakaya? Let me know in the comments! Happy cooking!