Dahi Vada, also known as Dahi Bhalla Chaat, is a popular Indian street food loved by food enthusiasts all over the world. This delightful dish combines the goodness of lentils, the freshness of yogurt, and the kick of various spices to create a culinary masterpiece. In this blog post, we will guide you through a step-by-step process to prepare these soft, flavorful vadas that will tantalize your taste buds. So, let’s dive into the world of spices and flavors as we unravel the secrets of making the perfect Dahi Vada!
To start your Dahi Vada adventure, gather the following ingredients: 3/4 cup Split Skinned Black Gram Lentils (Urad dal), 3 tablespoons Split Yellow Lentils (Moong Dal), 1 Green Chili Pepper, 1 inch Ginger, 1/2 teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste), and Oil for frying the vadas. For assembling, you’ll need 2 cups of chilled Yogurt, 1/4 teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste), 1/2 teaspoon Sugar (adjust to taste), 1/4 cup Tamarind Chutney, 2 tablespoons Mint Cilantro Chutney, 1/2 teaspoon Roasted Ground Cumin (Jeera powder), 1/4 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder, and chopped Cilantro leaves for garnishing. These ingredients are the building blocks of the delicious Dahi Vada you’re about to create.
Begin by soaking the Urad dal and Moong Dal in water for a few hours until they become soft. After draining the water, blend the lentils with green chili, ginger, and salt to form a smooth paste. Shape this mixture into small rounds and fry them until golden brown, creating the crispy vadas that are the heart of Dahi Vada. Be sure to drain excess oil to keep them light and flavorful.
Once your vadas are ready, immerse them in warm water for a while. This step ensures that the vadas absorb water, making them soft and spongy. Afterward, gently squeeze out the excess water and arrange the vadas in a serving dish. Now, generously pour the whipped yogurt over the vadas. The yogurt should be well-beaten and seasoned with salt and sugar to balance the flavors. Top it off with tamarind chutney, mint cilantro chutney, roasted ground cumin, and Kashmiri red chili powder for that perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy tastes.
Garnish your Dahi Vada with freshly chopped cilantro leaves, adding a burst of color and freshness. Now, your Dahi Vada (Dahi Bhalla Chaat) is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it chilled and watch as your guests indulge in this delectable delight. So, don your apron, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey that promises to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Happy cooking!