Medu Vada

Ingredients

1 Cup Urad Dal (Split Black Gram)
1 Inch Ginger, Grated
2 Green Chillies, Finely Chopped
1/2 Tsp Crushed Black Peppercorns
1/2 Tsp Jeera or Cumin Seeds
2 Strands of Curry Leaves, finely chopped
Very little water for grinding, approximately 1/2 Cup
Salt to Taste
Oil for deep frying

Servings / Time

12 Mendu Vadas / Overnight Soaking (8 Hours) /Preparation (45 minutes)

Preparation

1. Soak the urad dal for a minimum of 4 hours or soak overnight for around 8 hours in water.

2. Drain the water and grind the urad dal in a blender using as little water as possible. Add the thick batter to a bowl.

3. Now add salt, grated ginger, finely chopped green chilies, crushed peppercorns and chopped curry leaves to the batter. Mix thoroughly well. At this stage chopped onions, chopped coriander and half cup idli rava can be added. I have not added here.

4. Take a deep frying pan, add oil and heat it.

5. To shape the vadas, wet your hands, take a small portion on the palm of your hand. Make a small hole at the center of the batter using the finger of your other hand.

6. Now gently slide the batter into the hot oil. Fry the vadas on a medium flame.

7. Once the vadas get golden brown on one side, turn it to the other side and cook until golden brown.

8. Once ready, place the vadas on a paper towel to remove excess oil.

9. Serve hot with sambhar and chutney.

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