Nendran banana / நேந்திர வாழைப்பழம்

Nendran banana, also known as "Nendran Pazham" or "Kerala banana," is a type of banana native to the Indian state of Kerala and other regions of South India. It is characterized by its large size, elongated shape, and thick, green skin that turns golden yellow when ripe. Unlike other dessert bananas, Nendran bananas are starchy and firm, with a slightly sour taste when unripe. They are commonly used in South Indian cuisine for cooking rather than eaten raw, and are particularly favored for making traditional dishes like banana chips, banana fritters (known as "pazham pori" in Malayalam), and various savory preparations. Due to their high starch content, Nendran bananas are also suitable for boiling, steaming, or grilling. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, offering several health benefits along with their culinary versatility.