Upperi

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Upperi is a term used in Kerala cuisine (South India) to refer to fried vegetable or fruit chips, often prepared as a snack or side dish. The term "upperi" is particularly known for its association with banana chips (nendran upperi), made from sliced raw plantains that are deep-fried in coconut oil until crisp. Upperi is commonly served during the traditional Kerala feast called Sadya, especially for festivals like Onam and Vishu.

General Description

Upperi is a popular food item in Kerala, known for its crunchy texture and savoury taste. The most well-known variety is banana upperi, made from the Kerala banana variety called nendran. The bananas are peeled, thinly sliced, and deep-fried in coconut oil, giving them a golden-yellow colour and a distinctive flavour. Salt or turmeric is sometimes added to enhance taste and colour.

In addition to banana chips, upperi can also refer to other types of fried snacks:

  • Kaya Upperi: Made from raw plantains or green bananas.
  • Chakka Upperi: Made from raw jackfruit slices that are deep-fried until crispy.
  • Kappa Upperi: Made from thinly sliced cassava (tapioca) that is fried to perfection.

These snacks are typically enjoyed as a crunchy accompaniment to meals, as part of the Sadya, or as standalone snacks with tea.

Application Areas

  • Festive Feasts: Commonly served as part of the traditional Kerala Sadya (feast) during festivals like Onam and Vishu.
  • Tea-time Snacks: Popular as a crispy, salty snack with tea or coffee.
  • Side Dish: Served as a crunchy side dish to complement rice-based meals or curries.
  • Street Food and Markets: Widely available in street stalls, local markets, and packaged as ready-to-eat snacks.

Well-Known Examples

  • Nendran Upperi (Banana Chips): The most famous upperi variety, made from sliced nendran bananas fried in coconut oil, often lightly salted or spiced with turmeric.
  • Jackfruit Upperi (Chakka Upperi): Made from thin slices of raw jackfruit, deep-fried until golden and crispy.
  • Tapioca Chips (Kappa Upperi): Prepared from thin slices of cassava or tapioca, deep-fried and seasoned with salt or chilli powder.

Treatment and Risks

  • High in Oil: Being deep-fried, upperi can be high in fat and calories, which may not be suitable for those managing their weight or dietary fat intake.
  • Salt Content: May contain added salt, which should be considered by those on low-sodium diets.
  • Storage: Needs to be stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the chips from becoming stale.

Similar Terms

  • Chips: A general term for thinly sliced, fried or baked pieces of vegetables or fruits, similar in preparation to upperi.
  • Pappadam: A crispy, thin wafer made from lentil flour, also served in Kerala Sadya, but different in texture and preparation.
  • Bhujia: A North Indian fried snack made from gram flour and spices, similar in its use as a crunchy side or snack but different in form and ingredients.

Articles with 'Upperi' in the title

  • Ethakka/Pazham Upperi: Ethakka/Pazham Upperirefers to crispy and tasty banana chips from Kerala, India. It is one of the important components of Sadya. It is an integral part of the traditional Kerala meal called Sadya which is served during wedding, church . . .

Summary

Upperi is a traditional fried snack from Kerala, India, made from various fruits and vegetables like bananas, jackfruit, and tapioca. Known for its crunchy texture and savoury flavour, it is a beloved part of the Kerala Sadya feast, enjoyed as a side dish, snack, or accompaniment to meals, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of the region.

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