Vazhaithandu Soup | Banana Stem Soup

✨ “A soothing, wholesome, and detoxifying soup that blends the goodness of banana stem with dal, spices, and aromatic flavors — perfect for health and taste!” ✨

Vazhaithandu (banana stem) is a traditional South Indian superfood, rich in fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. Known for its detoxifying and digestive properties, it supports hydration, regulates blood sugar, and aids digestion. This soup combines banana stem with dal, ginger, garlic, and spices to create a light, soothing, and wholesome dish — perfect as a nourishing meal or healthful drink.

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🛒 Ingredients

• Banana stem / Vazhaithandu – 1 cup (chopped)
• Onion – 1 (medium, chopped)
• Garlic – 3 to 4 pods
• Ginger – 1 inch (chopped)
• Black pepper – 1 tsp
• Jeera (cumin seeds) – ½ tsp
• Cooked moong dal / toor dal – ½ cup
• Green chili – 1 (optional)
• Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp
• Salt – as required
• Water – as needed
• Oil – 1–2 tsp

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. ** Prep Banana Stem**

   • Chop banana stem into small pieces.
   • Soak in buttermilk briefly to prevent discoloration, then rinse thoroughly in water.

2. ** Cook Base**

   • Heat oil in a soup pan.
   • Add ginger and garlic; saute until raw smell disappears.
   • Add black pepper, cumin, and green chili; saute for 1 minute.
   • Add onions; saute until translucent.
   • Add turmeric powder and mix well.

3. ** Cook Banana Stem**

   • Add chopped banana stem and sufficient water.
   • Cover and cook on medium flame for 5–10 minutes until tender.
   • Test doneness by lightly pressing pieces with fingers.

4. ** Strain & Grind**

   • Strain the cooked mixture, reserving the water for soup.
   • Transfer the banana stem mixture to a blender and grind to a smooth paste.

5. ** Final Soup**

   • Add reserved water to a pan, then add ground banana stem paste.
   • Mix in cooked dal and adjust consistency with water.
   • Add salt and bring to a gentle boil on medium-low flame.
   • Simmer for 2 minutes.

6. ** Serve Hot**

   • Pour into bowls and enjoy warm.

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🌟 Tips

• ✅ Soak banana stem in buttermilk to prevent discoloration.
• ✅ Adjust water for desired soup consistency.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Best enjoyed as a warm, detoxifying soup 🥣.

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💪 Nutritional Benefits

** Banana Stem (Vazhaithandu)**

• High in dietary fiber, potassium, Vitamin B6, and antioxidants.
• Supports digestion, prevents kidney stones, and detoxifies the body.

** Dal**

• Adds protein and makes the soup filling.

** Black Pepper & Jeera**

• Aid in digestion and boost metabolism naturally.

👉 Vazhaithandu Soup is a light, healthy, and nourishing recipe — perfect for wellness, detox, and everyday nourishment.

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🎥 Video Tutorial