Masala Vada, also known as Paruppu Vadai, is a popular South Indian snack that boasts a crispy exterior and a flavorful, spiced interior. Made from a mixture of soaked and ground lentils along with a blend of aromatic spices, this delightful snack is perfect for tea-time gatherings, parties, or simply as a savory treat to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
- – 1 cup chana dal (split chickpeas)
- – 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
- – 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
- – A handful of curry leaves, chopped
- – 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves
- – 1 teaspoon ginger, finely grated
- – 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- – Salt, to taste
- – Oil, for deep frying
Instruction:
1. Soaking the Lentils:
- – Rinse the chana dal thoroughly in water until the water runs clear.
- – Soak the chana dal in enough water for about 2-3 hours. This step softens the lentils and makes them easier to grind.
2. Grinding the Mixture:
- – Drain the soaked chana dal and transfer it to a grinder.
- – Grind the chana dal into a coarse paste without adding any water. The consistency should be similar to that of bread crumbs.
3. Mixing the Ingredients:
- – Transfer the ground chana dal to a mixing bowl.
- – Add the finely chopped onions, green chilies, curry leaves, coriander leaves, grated ginger, fennel seeds, and salt. Mix well to combine.
4. Shaping the Vadas:
- – Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
- – Take a small portion of the mixture and shape it into a flat, round vada. You can flatten it on your palm or on a banana leaf for easy shaping.
5. Frying the Vadas:
- – Carefully slide the shaped vada into the hot oil. You can fry multiple vadas at a time, depending on the size of your pan.
- – Fry the vadas until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides. Make sure to flip them occasionally for even frying.
- – Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried vadas and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
6. Serving:
- – Serve the crispy masala vadas hot with coconut chutney, mint chutney, or sambar.
- – They are also delicious as a standalone snack, paired with a cup of hot tea.
Tips:
- – If the vadas are turning out too oily, it might be because the oil isn’t hot enough. Ensure that the oil is sufficiently hot before adding the vadas.
- – You can adjust the quantity of green chilies according to your spice preference.
- – The addition of fennel seeds adds a unique flavor, but you can also use cumin seeds if you prefer.
Conclusion:
Indulge in the wonderful flavors of South India with this Masala Vada recipe. With its crispy exterior, spicy interior, and a burst of aromatic spices, these vadas are sure to become a favorite snack for your family and friends. Enjoy the delightful crunch and the perfect blend of textures in every bite!