Dahi Vada or Dahi Bhalla (Fried Dumplings in a Yogurt Sauce)
Prep Time20 minutesmins
Cook Time10 minutesmins
Total Time30 minutesmins
Servings: 4
Author: Meena, www.hookedonheat.com
Ingredients
3cupsplain yogurt
1cupwater
saltto taste
1/2cuptamarind chutneystore-bought will work fine
1tbspgaram masala powder
1tbspcumin powder
1tbspred chilli powder
1tbspchaat masala powder
finely chopped fresh cilantrofor garnish
For the Vadas (Lentil Dumplings)
1cupurad dal (huskless split black lentils)soaked overnight
2tbspwater
1tspgrated fresh ginger
saltto taste
Instructions
Mix yogurt and water really well till smooth. Season with salt and set aside.
For the Vadas (Lentil Dumplings)
Drain and rinse the soaked lentils well. Grind them with two tablespoons of water to form a really thick and smooth batter.
Add in the grated ginger and salt, and mix well.
Heat oil in a deep pan, and slowly add in about a tablespoon of the batter into the hot oil and deep fry till golden brown and crisp. Try not to overcrowd the pan and only fry a few at a time.
Drain the fried dumplings onto paper towels to soak any excess oil, and then add them into the yogurt sauce. Let them soak in the yogurt sauce for a few minutes.
To assemble the Dahi Vadas
For each individual serving, add 4-6 of the dumplings soaking in yogurt into a bowl and top with some more of the yogurt sauce.
Sprinkle a tablespoon or two of the tamarind chutney, as well as a heavy pinch of each of the spices. You can easily adjust the amounts according to your preference.
Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.