Kerala Nendran Banana Chips

A Kerala treasure since the 13th century

Dive into the flavours of Kerala with our Nendran banana chips, known locally as Ethakka Upperi. This iconic South Indian snack is far more than a mere treat: it has been an integral part of Kerala's culture since the 13th century. Traditionally served during the Onam feast on banana leaves, they were once offered at the Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple during the Murajapam, a royal ceremony held every twelve years.

The Nendran banana: an exceptional variety

What makes these chips unique is the Nendran banana itself. Grown in the fertile regions of Kerala for 800 years, this variety holds a protected Geographical Indication in India. Our Nendran bananas are sourced exclusively from organic farms in the Thiruvananthapuram district, cultivated by the Kudumbasree network and other women-led farming cooperatives in Kerala. The Nendran stands out for its firm, starchy flesh, ideal for frying. Unlike dessert bananas or common plantains, it offers an incomparably crispy texture and a subtle flavour that reveals its full richness when fried.

Woodpressed organic coconut oil: the secret of authenticity

Our chips are fried in woodpressed organic coconut oil, a traditional process that preserves all the oil's nutritional qualities without chemical alteration. This oil gives the chips their characteristic aroma and irresistible crunch. The oil is never reused: each batch is fried in fresh oil, guaranteeing optimal quality and the absence of degraded fatty acids. Turmeric, added during cooking, gives them their beautiful golden colour while acting as a natural preservative.

Why these are different from regular plantain chips

Banana chips sold in supermarkets are typically made from Ecuadorian or African plantains, fried in refined palm oil. Our Kerala Nendran chips are made with the authentic Nendran variety, fried in woodpressed organic coconut oil, naturally lower in fat thanks to traditional flash frying, and rich in healthy fats.

A naturally healthy snack

Nendran banana chips are naturally vegan, gluten-free, cholesterol-free and with no added sugar. Rich in potassium, vitamin B6 and fibre (twice as much as potato crisps), they are a healthy energy source with less fat than conventional crisps.

The coconut oil used for frying is rich in MCTs (medium-chain triglycerides), fatty acids metabolised more quickly by the body than conventional saturated fats — an additional health benefit.

Our quality commitment

At Table Indienne, we source our banana chips directly from artisan producers in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, who work with the Kudumbasree network, the world's largest women's solidarity economy network. Free from artificial preservatives and colourings, they are prepared using time-honoured methods to deliver an authentic taste. Ingredients: organic Nendran banana, woodpressed organic coconut oil, rock salt, turmeric.

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature. Best consumed within 2 months of opening.