Kelya Phodi

Semolina-coated banana fritters — raw or semi-ripe small Konkan bananas (nendran, velchi, or local varieties) cut lengthwise, dipped in a thin batter of rice flour, red chilli, turmeric, and salt, then rolled in fine rava and shallow-fried in coconut oil until golden and crisp. The banana softens inside while the semolina crust becomes crunchy; the combination of the naturally sweet banana and the spiced, crunchy exterior is a uniquely Saraswat flavour. Made as an accompaniment to the main meal or as a snack; the phodi (fried) preparation is one of the Saraswat community's most beloved daily preparations alongside fish fry.