Crispy Masala Vada with Green Chutney
Golden, puffed lentil fritters fried until crackling crispy, served with tangy green chutney, fresh onions, and lime. South Indian snack that's crunchy outside, fluffy inside — ready in under 15 minutes.
- Total time
- 12 min
- Servings
- 2
- Calories
- 285
- Protein
- 8g
Ingredients
- ¾ cup split urad dal (white lentils), soaked 30 minutes
- ½ medium potato, grated
- 1 whole green chili, minced
- ¼ cup onion, finely minced
- 2 cups neutral oil for deep frying
- ½ cup green chutney (store-bought or fresh cilantro blended with yogurt)
- 1 whole lime wedges
Instructions
- 1
Drain soaked dal and blend briefly (12–15 pulses) until coarse paste forms — some texture should remain.
- 2
Fold in grated potato, minced green chili, minced onion, and a pinch of salt until just combined.
- 3
Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet to 350°F (test: a pinch of batter sizzles and floats immediately).
- 4
Shape batter into balls (wet your fingers to prevent sticking), then gently flatten each into a donut shape with a hole through center.
- 5
Slide 3–4 vadas into hot oil and fry 2 minutes per side until deep golden brown and crispy; transfer to paper towel.
- 6
Serve warm vadas with green chutney on the side, sliced onions, and lime wedges for squeezing.
Tools you’ll need
- fine-mesh strainer
- food processor or blender
- heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet (3-quart minimum)
- candy/deep-fry thermometer
- slotted spoon
- paper towels
- small bowls for shaping
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