Dahi Vada (Fermented Lentil Fritters in Yogurt Sauce)

Ingredients:

For the Vadas:

• 1 cup urad dal (split black gram)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Oil for deep frying

For the Yogurt Sauce:

• 2 cups yogurt (curd)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chaat masala
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black salt (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• Tamarind chutney for garnish (optional)
• Mint chutney for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Vadas:

1. Soak and Grind:
   • Rinse and soak the urad dal in water for at least 4-5 hours or overnight.
   • Drain the water and grind the dal to a smooth batter using minimal water. The batter should be thick and fluffy.
   • Add cumin seeds and salt to the batter and mix well.
2. Ferment:
   • Allow the batter to ferment for about 4-6 hours in a warm place. This step is optional but enhances the taste and digestibility.
3. Fry the Vadas:
   • Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
   • Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, frying until the vadas are golden brown and crispy.
   • Remove the vadas from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Prepare the Yogurt Sauce:

4. Whisk Yogurt:
   • In a large bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth and creamy.
   • Add salt, cumin powder, chaat masala, red chili powder, black salt (if using), and sugar (if using). Mix well.

Assemble the Dahi Vada:

5. Soak the Vadas:
   • Soak the fried vadas in warm water for 10-15 minutes until they become soft.
   • Gently squeeze out the excess water from the vadas and place them in a serving dish.
6. Add Yogurt Sauce:
   • Pour the spiced yogurt sauce over the soaked vadas, ensuring they are fully covered.
7. Garnish:
   • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves, tamarind chutney, and mint chutney as desired.
8. Serve:
   • Serve chilled for the best taste. Dahi Vada can be enjoyed as a snack or part of a meal.

Benefits: Dahi Vada is rich in probiotics from the yogurt, which aids in digestion and promotes gut health. The lentil fritters provide protein and fiber, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.

Nutritive Value (per serving):

• Calories: Approximately 200-250 kcal
• Protein: 8-10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
• Fiber: 5-7 grams
• Fats: 8-10 grams (mainly from the frying process)
• Vitamins: Good source of B vitamins, vitamin A, and vitamin C.
• Minerals: Contains iron, calcium, and magnesium.

Enjoy this delightful and healthy Dahi Vada, perfect for a refreshing snack or a light meal!