Vada 瓦達（扁豆甜甜圈）

Vada, often referring to Medu Vada, is a traditional South Indian crispy and savory doughnut-shaped fritter made from ground urad dal (split black lentils). It's a popular breakfast item or snack, commonly served with sambar (lentil stew) and coconut chutney.

Nutrition (per serving)

Ingredients

• 200g Urad Dal (split black lentils, skinned)
• 2 tbsp Rice Flour
• 1 small Onion, finely chopped
• 2 Green Chillies, finely chopped
• 1 inch Ginger, grated
• 1 sprig Curry Leaves, finely chopped
• 1.5 tsp Salt
• Water, as needed
• 3 cups Vegetable Oil (for deep frying)

Steps

1. Soak the Urad Dal in water for 2-3 hours. Afterward, drain the water completely.
2. Grind the soaked Urad Dal with minimal water into a fine and fluffy batter. Be careful not to add too much water.
3. Transfer the batter to a large bowl. Add the Rice Flour, chopped Onion, Green Chillies, grated Ginger, chopped Curry Leaves, and Salt. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
4. Heat the Vegetable Oil in a deep pan or wok over medium heat until it reaches a suitable temperature for deep frying (around 170-180°C / 340-350°F).
5. Wet your hands with water. Take a small portion of the vada batter, flatten it slightly into a disc, and make a hole in the center with your thumb.
6. Carefully slide the shaped vada into the hot Vegetable Oil. Fry 3-4 vadas at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
7. Fry the vadas for approximately 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides.
8. Remove the fried vadas from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
9. Serve the hot vadas immediately with coconut chutney, sambar, or your favorite dipping sauce.

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