Crispy Masala Vada with Chai
Golden, spiced lentil fritters fried until crispy and served with chai, fresh green chilies, and lemon wedges. A classic South Indian snack that's crunchy outside and fluffy inside.
- Total time
- 18 min
- Servings
- 2
- Calories
- 310
- Protein
- 8g
Ingredients
- 1 cup split urad dal (white lentils), hulled
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 whole green chilies, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 8 leaves curry leaves, chopped
- 2 cups oil for deep-frying
Instructions
- 1
Soak urad dal in water for 30 minutes, then drain well in a fine-mesh strainer.
- 2
Grind soaked dal with a splash of water into a thick, fluffy batter (should hold peaks but stay pourable).
- 3
Fold in onion, green chilies, ginger, curry leaves, and salt. Mix gently until combined.
- 4
Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high until a drop of batter sizzles immediately and rises.
- 5
Drop spoonfuls of batter into hot oil and fry 2–3 minutes per side until deep golden and crispy.
- 6
Drain on paper towels. Serve hot with chai, fresh green chilies, and lemon wedges on the side.
Tools you’ll need
- fine-mesh strainer
- blender or food processor
- deep skillet (10-inch or larger)
- cooking thermometer (optional but helpful)
- slotted spoon
- paper towels
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