Back in my boarding school days, evenings after class were the happiest moments we all looked forward to. Not just for the evening snacks, but also for the laughter, chit chat, and fun we shared. We were always super hungry after school, and there was one little joy that made those evenings extra special. It was Maya’s homemade banana jam and it tasted absolutely heavenly.

When the jam was finished, Maya had her own bold way of making sure her favorites came back. She would write letters to her parents saying she was ‘starving‘ and ask them to send more banana jam, meat pickle, and sugar. The funny part was that she would hand over these letters to our hostel warden, fully aware that sister would read them first. Every time the word “starving” appeared, the warden would get angry, but Maya didn’t mind.

Sugar was her weakness because she loved mixing it with the cup of curd we got at lunch. She would often ask us in Malayalam, “Thayir kazhichal velukumo?” – “Will eating curd make me fair?” And we would jokingly, reply, “Kudumbam velukum by sending you sugar!” – a pun that meant, “your family will go broke trying to send you sugar.”

We would spread the jam on anything we could find, but our absolute favourite was good old Marie biscuits. That sweet and sticky delight turned even the plainest snack into something special. It is funny how a little jar of jam, a bold letter, and a few silly jokes could fill our evenings with so much joy. Those moments were simple, yet they shaped the warmth I still carry in my heart today.

The Recipe that was Meant to be Shared

One day, I asked Maya if her amma could share the recipe. To my surprise, and unlike many who guard family recipes like treasure, her mother happily passed it on. No hesitation, no missing steps. Just a generous gift of love.

Over the years, I have met many people who hesitate to share recipes, sometimes even leaving out an important step or ingredient. But Maya’s amma believed in the joy of giving. That kindness has always stayed with me.

Why Palayankodan Bananas?

This jam is made from a banana variety called Palayankodan, which has a naturally rich wine-red color. No artificial colors are needed. Interestingly, these bananas often do not fetch good prices in the market. So instead of letting them go to waste, we turn them into this beautiful jam. A perfect example of turning something ordinary into something truly special.

More than Just a Jam

Every time I make this jam, I think of Maya. I remember our boarding days, our shared laughter over biscuits and jam, and the warmth of her mother’s gesture.

I have shared this jam with friends and family over the years, and it never fails to bring a smile on their faces. Because some recipes are more than just food, they are memories. When we share them, we are not just offering a taste, but also a little piece of our heart.

Would You Like the Recipe?

If you would like to try making this homemade banana jam, I would be more than happy to share the recipe. It is simple, special, and filled with love. People who have already tasted the banana jam from our home, do share your thoughts in the comments.

Over to You

• Have you ever tasted banana jam made from Palayankodan bananas?

• Do you think recipes should be shared freely, or kept as family secrets?

• Which food instantly brings back memories of your childhood?