Dahi Vadas

When I think about my some of my favorite appetizers, I must say dahi vadas do come to mind! They are fried savory donuts made with ground lentils that have been soaked in delicious, flavored yogurt sauce. Although the frying takes some time, it is well worth the effort!

 

Split black gram skinless (dhuli urad dal)     1 cup

Salt  to taste

Asafoetida  a pinch

Cumin seeds  1 teaspoon

Oil  to deep fry

Yogurt, whisked and chilled  2 1/2 cups

Black salt (kala namak)  1/2 teaspoon

Red chili powder  1 teaspoon

Roasted cumin powder  1 teaspoon

Sweet tamarind chutney  1/2 cup

Fresh coriander leaves,chopped  1/4 cup

 

Soak dal for three to four hours. Drain and grind, using very little water, to a thick, coarse and fluffy batter.

Grinding anything at this day and age is so much easier. I remember watching my grandmother use a big black grinding stone to manually gring up batter.

Add salt, asafoetida and cumin seeds and mix well with hands to make a well blended mixture. Heat sufficient oil in a utensil. Fry a small portion of the batter in hot oil to test if the batter holds well. Apply a little water on palm. Take a small portion of batter and pat lightly with damp fingers to flatten it. Gently put into hot oil. Repeat with remaining batter. Fry till wadas are golden brown. Drain and soak in cold water. Squeeze out wadas and arrange on a serving dish. Pour chilled yogurt over them and serve garnished with rock salt, red chili powder, cumin powder, sweet tamarind chutney and chopped coriander leaves.

ENJOY!! Until next time XOXO!