Jaggery Meets Banana Chips: Answering All Your Sharkara Varatti Questions | Tocco

1) What are Sharkara Varatti/Jaggery coated banana chips?

Originated in Kerala, jaggery coated banana chips or sharkara varatti is a sweet and mildly spiced banana chips coated in jaggery, and a popular snack served during festivals, celebrations, or as an accompaniment to traditional meals. The name "Sharkara varatti" is derived from the Malayalam words "Sharkara," meaning sugar, and "Varatti," which refers to the process of cooking down ingredients until they form a thick paste. 

2) Are jaggery coated banana chips a healthy snack?

Jaggery coated banana chips offer a range of nutritional benefits. They have a good source of essential nutrients such as potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6, supporting maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function. The sweetness comes from jaggery, a natural sweetener made from unrefined cane sugar. While jaggery coated banana chips can be enjoyed as an occasional treat, they should be consumed in moderation due to their high calorie, fat, and sugar content.

3) What are the key ingredients in Sharkara Varatti?

The ingredients used are not very ripe bananas or plantain, jaggery, oil (preferably coconut oil), some rice powder (to support in coating), and optional flavourings such as dry ginger powder, cardamom powder, or cinnamon etc. if you would like to add a bit of spice to it. 

4) How do I make jaggery coated banana chips at home?

Making jaggery coated banana chips at home is a delightful and straightforward process.  

Enjoy your homemade sharkara varatti as a delightful snack or as a treat to share with family and friends.

5) How do I achieve the right balance of sweetness in jaggery coated banana chips?

Achieving the right balance of sweetness in jaggery coated banana chips requires careful attention to the jaggery syrup and the frying process. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect balance of sweetness:

6) Can I use any type of jaggery for sharakkaravaratty?

Sugarcane jaggery and palm jaggery are the two types of jaggery that are commonly used. Depending on the quality of the jaggery used, it affects the taste of the final product. There are some jaggery specific to a region that people may use such as ‘marayoor sharkara’ which is known after the name of the place Marayoor in Idukki district, Kerala. 

7) Are there any variations or flavorings I can add to jaggery coated banana chips?

There are various delicious variations and flavorings you can add to jaggery coated banana chips to enhance their taste and create exciting flavor combinations. One of the most common is the spice combination. Incorporate spices like cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger powder into the jaggery syrup for a delightful twist. These spices not only add unique flavors but also complement the sweetness of the jaggery and bananas.

Other combinations to try are, sprinkling coconut flakes or sesame seeds, crushed nuts or even with some chocolate drizzle.

8) What is the best combination for Sharkara Varatti?

The combination of Sharkara Varatti with other snacks or beverages can create a delightful and balanced taste experience. Here are some excellent combinations to enjoy with jaggery coated banana chips:

As a snack:

Have it with Tea or Coffee, Fresh fruits, Chaat Mix, Nuts & Dry Fruits, Chutneys or Dips.

As dessert: 

Have it with Yogurt or Curd, as topping on Ice Cream

Remember that taste preferences vary, so feel free to experiment with different combinations to find the one that suits your palate the best. 

9) Is Sharkkara Varatti vegan-friendly?

Yes, Sharkara Varatti are typically considered vegan-friendly. The primary ingredients used in making these chips are ripe bananas and jaggery.

Jaggery is a natural sweetener made from either sugarcane juice or palm sap, and it is free from any animal-derived substances. As long as no animal products such as ghee (clarified butter) or milk are used in the preparation of the chips, they remain suitable for a vegan diet.

When making these chips at home, you can use plant-based oil for frying, such as coconut oil which is typically used for making the chips, ensuring that no animal-derived fats are used. Additionally, you can verify that the jaggery you use is free from any non-vegan additives or flavorings.

10) Is it possible to store jaggery coated banana chips for a long time?

Storing jaggery coated banana chips for an extended period can be a bit challenging due to the moisture content in the jaggery coating. However, with proper storage and handling, you can extend their shelf life and enjoy them over several weeks.

It's essential to remember that homemade snacks without preservatives have a limited shelf life compared to commercially packaged snacks. By following the above steps, you can ensure having a shelf life of a few weeks.