Banana sheera is a delicious and traditional Indian dessert made with ripe bananas, semolina, ghee, sugar, and flavored with cardamom and nuts.
It is a popular sweet dish that is often prepared during festivals, religious ceremonies, and special occasions.
The rich aroma and unique taste of banana sheera make it a favorite among both kids and adults.
In this article, we will explore how to prepare this delightful dessert step by step and also provide some helpful tips and variations to make it even more exciting.
Ingredients for Banana Sheera
To prepare banana sheera, you will need the following ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup semolina (sooji or rava)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- 4 cups water
- A handful of roasted cashews and almonds for garnishing
Step-by-Step Preparation
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you begin cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients measured and ready. Mash the ripe bananas using a fork or a blender and set them aside.
Roast the cashews and almonds in a separate pan until golden brown and keep them aside for garnishing.
Cooking the Sheera
- Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Once the ghee is melted and hot, add the semolina (sooji) to the pan.
- Roast the semolina in ghee, stirring continuously to prevent it from burning. The semolina will turn golden brown and release a fragrant aroma. This process helps to enhance the flavor of the sheera.
- While roasting the semolina, simultaneously bring water to a boil in a separate saucepan.
- Gradually pour the boiling water into the roasted semolina, stirring vigorously to avoid lumps from forming. Be cautious as the mixture may splutter.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the semolina cook in the water, stirring constantly to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- As the semolina absorbs the water and thickens, add the sugar and continue stirring until it dissolves completely. The mixture will become smooth and glossy.
- Next, add the mashed bananas and cardamom powder to the pan. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. The sheera will start to leave the sides of the pan.
- Once the sheera reaches the desired consistency, turn off the heat. It should be smooth, creamy, and free of any lumps.
Adding the Bananas
- Transfer the prepared banana sheera to a serving dish or individual bowls.
- Garnish with the roasted cashews and almonds, adding a delightful crunch to the dessert.
- Allow the sheera to cool for a few minutes before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
- Serve the banana sheera as a standalone dessert or as a sweet accompaniment to a traditional Indian meal.
Tips for Making Perfect Banana Sheera
- Use ripe bananas with a yellow peel and brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Ensure the semolina is roasted well until it turns golden brown to enhance the taste of the sheera.
- Stir continuously while cooking the sheera to prevent it from sticking to the pan and forming lumps.
- Adjust the sugar quantity according to your taste preferences. You can reduce or increase the amount as desired.
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute some of the water with milk while cooking the semolina.
- Experiment with additional ingredients like saffron strands or grated coconut to add a unique twist to the recipe.
Variations of Banana Sheera
Banana sheera can be customized with different flavors and ingredients. Here are a few variations you can try:
Nutty Banana Sheera
- Add chopped mixed nuts like pistachios, walnuts, and raisins to the sheera for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
Coconut Banana Sheera
- Replace some of the water with coconut milk to give the sheera a rich and tropical taste.
- Garnish with toasted coconut flakes for added texture and visual appeal.
Chocolate Banana Sheera
- Mix in a tablespoon of cocoa powder while cooking the sheera to create a delicious chocolate-banana fusion.
- Top with chocolate shavings or sprinkles for a delightful treat.
Serving and Presentation
Banana sheera can be served in various ways to make it visually appealing and appetizing. Here are some presentation ideas:
- Transfer the sheera to individual bowls or dessert cups and garnish each serving with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few slices of banana for an elegant touch.
- Serve the banana sheera on a decorative platter, garnished with a dusting of powdered cardamom and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for a festive presentation.
- For a more casual serving style, scoop the warm sheera into bowls and top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Remember, presentation plays a significant role in enhancing the overall dining experience, so feel free to get creative and experiment with different serving styles that suit your occasion and personal preferences.
Banana sheera is a delightful Indian dessert that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich flavors of semolina, ghee, and aromatic spices.
With its creamy texture and indulgent taste, it is a crowd-pleaser for both special occasions and everyday sweet cravings.
By following the step-by-step recipe and incorporating your own creative variations, you can master the art of making perfect banana sheera.
So, gather the ingredients, get cooking, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a memorable dessert experience!
Delicious Banana Sheera Recipe
"Indulge in the irresistible flavors of a delectable Banana Sheera with our easy-to-follow recipe. Enjoy the perfect blend of sweetness and aroma in every bite."
Type: Dessert
Cuisine: Asian
Keywords: Banana Sheera
Recipe Yield: 4
Preparation Time: 5 Minutes
Cooking Time: 15 Minutes
Total Time: 20 Minutes
Recipe Ingredients:
- • 3 ripe bananas, mashed • 1 cup semolina (sooji or rava) • 1 cup sugar • 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter) • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder • 4 cups water • A handful of roasted cashews and almonds for garnishing