Crispy Urad Dal Vada

Ingredients

Urad dal

1 cup, soaked for at least 2 hours

Water

as needed for grinding

Ginger

1 inch, finely chopped

Green chillies

2, finely chopped (adjust to taste)

Cumin seeds

1 teaspoon

Black pepper

1/2 teaspoon, crushed

Salt

to taste

Oil

for deep frying

Fresh coriander leaves

2 tablespoons, chopped (optional for garnish)

Green chutney

for serving

Sambar

for serving

Instructions

1. Soak the urad dal in water for at least 2 hours to soften.
2. Drain the soaked dal and transfer it to a blender. Grind it into a smooth paste, adding very little water as needed to achieve a thick consistency.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground dal paste with chopped green chillies, ginger, cumin seeds, crushed black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. The oil is ready when a small drop of the batter sizzles upon contact.
5. Wet your hands to prevent sticking. Take a small portion of the dal mixture and shape it into a round disc, creating a hole in the center like a doughnut.
6. Carefully drop the shaped vada into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
7. Using a slotted spoon, remove the vadas and drain them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
8. Serve the vadas hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves, alongside green chutney and sambar for a delightful experience.