Recipe - Delectable Dahi Vada

Dahi Vada is a popular Indian snack made with lentil dumplings soaked in yogurt and topped with spices and chutneys. It's loved for its delicious flavors and textures, and it's great for cooling down on hot days or enjoying as an appetizer any time. In this article, we'll show you how to make Dahi Vada at home, so you can enjoy this classic Indian dish without any hassle.

Ingredients

For the Vada:

1 cup urad dal (split black gram)
2 green chilies, finely chopped
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
Salt to taste
Oil for frying

For the Yogurt Mixture:

2 cups thick yogurt (curd)
1/2 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
Salt to taste
Water, as needed

For Garnish:

Tamarind chutney
Green chutney
Roasted cumin powder
Red chili powder
Chopped coriander leaves
Sev (crunchy chickpea flour noodles)

Preparation Time: 30 minutes (plus soaking time)
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes
Servings: Makes about 20 Dahi Vadas

Method

Prepare the Vada Batter:

- Wash the urad dal thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Drain the soaked dal and transfer it to a blender or food processor.
- Add chopped green chilies, grated ginger, cumin seeds, and salt to the dal.
- Grind the mixture, adding a little water at a time, until you achieve a smooth and fluffy batter consistency.

Fry the Vadas:

- Heat oil in a deep frying pan or kadhai over medium heat.
- Wet your hands with water and take a small portion of the batter. Flatten it slightly and make a hole in the center using your thumb.
- Carefully slide the vada into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Remove the fried vadas from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels. Repeat the process with the remaining batter.

Soak the Vadas:

- Take warm water in a bowl and add a little salt to it.
- Immerse the fried vadas in the salted water and let them soak for about 15-20 minutes. This helps to soften the vadas and enhances their taste.

Prepare the Yogurt Mixture:

- In a separate bowl, whisk the thick yogurt until smooth and creamy.
- Add roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, and salt to the yogurt, and mix well. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.

Assemble the Dahi Vadas:

- Squeeze out excess water from the soaked vadas and arrange them on a serving plate.
- Pour the prepared yogurt mixture generously over the vadas, ensuring they are completely covered.
- Drizzle tamarind chutney and green chutney over the yogurt-covered vadas.
- Sprinkle roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, chopped coriander leaves, and sev on top for garnish.

Serve and Enjoy:

- Serve the Dahi Vadas immediately as a refreshing snack or appetizer.
- Enjoy the burst of flavors and textures as you bite into the soft vadas soaked in creamy yogurt, complemented by the tangy chutneys and aromatic spices.