Steamed Banana Coconut Sesame Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Plantains

Peel the two overripe plantains and chop them into small, bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Sauté the Bananas

Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a pan. Add the chopped plantain pieces and sauté them until they become very soft and mushy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir continuously to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Add Sweetener

Once the bananas are soft, add 1/4 cup of sugar (or jaggery) to the pan. Mix well until the sugar melts completely and combines with the bananas, forming a uniform mixture.

Step 4: Incorporate Coconut

Add 1/2 cup of grated coconut (lightly pulsed in a mixer) to the banana mixture. Continue to mix and sauté until the moisture from the coconut evaporates and the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Flavorings

Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom powder and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.

Step 6: Add Rice Flour to Bind

Gradually add approximately 1/2 cup of rice flour (the type used for idiyappam) to the mixture, mixing continuously. Add just enough flour until the mixture becomes tight and forms a dough-like consistency that can be easily handled and rolled into balls.

Step 7: Form the Balls

Allow the mixture to cool down slightly until it's warm enough to handle. Lightly grease your hands with oil. Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into medium-sized, smooth balls (similar to the size of a gooseberry).

Step 8: Coat the Balls

In a separate plate, combine 1/4 cup of grated coconut, 1/2 teaspoon of white sesame seeds, and 1/2 teaspoon of black sesame seeds. Roll each prepared banana ball in this mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.

Step 9: Steam the Snack Balls

Lightly grease a steamer plate with oil. Arrange the coated banana balls on the plate, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Steam for 10 minutes until cooked through.

Step 10: Serve

Once steamed, remove the banana snack balls from the steamer. They are now ready to be served warm as a delicious and soft treat. They will remain soft even after cooling.

• Use overripe plantains for a sweeter and softer texture.

• Adjust the amount of sugar or jaggery according to the sweetness of the bananas and personal preference.

• Using mature coconut enhances the flavor of the snack.

• Substitute sugar with jaggery for a different flavor profile.

• Add chopped nuts like cashews or almonds to the mixture for extra crunch and flavor.