Sharkara Upperi: Kerala’s Sweet and Savory Crunchy Delight

Introduction

Kerala is home to a wide range of unique and flavorful traditional snacks, and Sharkara Upperi stands out as one of its most iconic delicacies. This sweet, crunchy, and mildly spiced snack is a true gem of Kerala’s culinary heritage. Perfect for festive occasions or as an everyday indulgence, Sharkara Upperi combines the richness of jaggery with the crispiness of banana chips, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Beyond its irresistible taste, this traditional snack also offers several nutritional benefits.

In this blog, let’s explore everything you need to know about Sharkara Upperi—from its origins and cultural significance to how you can make it at home.

What Is Sharkara Upperi?

Sharkara Upperi is a traditional Kerala snack made using unripe Nendran bananas that are deep-fried and then coated in a syrup made from pure jaggery (a natural sugar derived from sugarcane or palm). Once the banana slices are fried to a crisp golden texture, they are glazed with jaggery syrup infused with aromatic spices like cardamom and dry ginger powder.
The result? A deliciously crunchy snack that delivers a mix of sweet, spicy, and savory notes in every bite.

This snack is a staple during major festivals such as Onam, Vishu, and Navaratri, but it’s also enjoyed year-round by families across Kerala.

Why Is Sharkara Upperi Special?

Authentic Kerala Taste

Sharkara Upperi embodies the spirit of Kerala’s culinary tradition. It’s a beloved part of the Sadya, Kerala’s traditional feast, and is often shared with family and friends during festive celebrations.

 Made with Natural Ingredients

The snack’s charm lies in its simplicity. Prepared using just unripe Nendran bananas and pure jaggery, it avoids any processed or artificial ingredients. The bananas provide a natural crunch, while jaggery adds a subtle sweetness and several health benefits.

Perfect Flavor Balance

The combination of cardamom and dry ginger powder adds warmth and depth to the flavor. The result is a snack that’s sweet but not overly sugary—rich, aromatic, and perfectly balanced.

How to Make Sharkara Upperi at Home

Ingredients

4–5 unripe Nendran bananas (or any firm unripe variety)

1 cup grated jaggery

½ cup water

¼ tsp dry ginger powder

¼ tsp cardamom powder

1 tbsp ghee or oil (for frying)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bananas
Peel the unripe bananas and slice them into thin, even rounds. A mandoline slicer works well for uniform thickness.

Step 2: Fry the Banana Chips
Heat oil or ghee in a deep pan. Once hot, fry the slices in small batches until they turn golden and crispy. Remove and drain the excess oil on paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Jaggery Syrup
In a separate pan, add jaggery and water. Heat gently until the jaggery dissolves and forms a thick syrup.

Step 4: Coat the Chips
Add the fried chips into the syrup and mix gently so they are evenly coated.

Step 5: Add the Spices
Sprinkle dry ginger and cardamom powder over the coated chips. Stir well to distribute the flavors.

Step 6: Cool and Store
Spread the coated chips on a tray and allow them to cool completely. Once hardened, store them in an airtight container.

Health Benefits of Sharkara Upperi

 Rich in Potassium

Unripe bananas are naturally rich in potassium, an essential mineral that supports healthy blood pressure, muscle function, and electrolyte balance.

Supports Digestion

The fiber in unripe bananas aids digestion, while dry ginger powder adds natural digestive properties that soothe the stomach.

 Natural Sweetener Benefits

Jaggery, unlike refined sugar, is full of antioxidants and minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium. It supports detoxification and overall wellness.

 Free from Additives

Sharkara Upperi uses only natural ingredients — no artificial flavors, preservatives, or processed sugars — making it a healthier alternative to packaged snacks.

Conclusion

Sharkara Upperi is not just a snack—it’s a piece of Kerala’s tradition wrapped in flavor. Its blend of sweetness, crunch, and spice makes it a timeless favorite for all ages. Whether you’re celebrating a festival or simply craving a wholesome treat, this authentic Kerala delicacy promises both taste and nutrition in every bite.

So, the next time you reach for a snack, choose Sharkara Upperi—a true celebration of Kerala’s culinary heritage.