Thayir Vada Recipe (Spicy Fritter Soaked In Sweet Yogurt Recipe)
Introduction
Thayir Vada, a cherished South Indian delicacy, encapsulates the essence of a perfect snack that is not only rich in flavors but also an exciting textural delight. This dish features crispy, spiced fritters made from urad dal, which are lovingly soaked in a luscious sweet yogurt mixture, creating a harmonious blend of taste that dances on your palate. Perfect for gatherings, parties, or as a savory treat during tea time, this recipe is a wonderful addition to any culinary repertoire. Each bite of Thayir Vada offers a delectable contrast between the crispiness of the fritters and the smooth, cool yogurt, heightened by a delightful tempering of spices, making it a crowd-pleaser among friends and family alike.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| White Urad Dal (Whole) | 1/2 cup |
| Green Chilli (chopped) | 2 |
| Asafoetida (hing) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ginger (finely chopped) | 1 inch |
| Salt | To taste |
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 2 cups |
| Sugar | 2 teaspoons |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 1/4 cup |
| Mustard Seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1 teaspoon |
| Dry Red Chilli (halved) | 1 |
| Curry Leaves (finely chopped) | 1 sprig |
| Sunflower Oil | For cooking |
| Boondi | As needed |
| Coriander Leaves (finely chopped) | A few sprigs |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 105 minutes
Servings
- Servings: 4
- Cuisine: South Indian
- Course: Snack
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Soaking and Grinding the Dal:
Begin your Thayir Vada journey by soaking the white urad dal in ample water for about 2 hours. This softens the dal, allowing for a smoother grinding process. Once soaked, strain the dal and transfer it to a blender. Add the chopped green chilis, finely chopped ginger, a pinch of asafoetida, and salt to taste. Gradually add a little water as you blend to achieve a thick and smooth batter, ensuring the ingredients are well incorporated. -
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Preparing the Yogurt Mixture:
In a separate bowl, take the curd and whisk it until smooth. To this, add a pinch of salt, the sugar, and the grated fresh coconut. Mix thoroughly and refrigerate this mixture while you prepare the vadas, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. -
Frying the Vadas:
Heat sunflower oil in a kuzhi paniyaram pan or a deep frying pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully drop spoonfuls of the prepared batter into the oil, ensuring that you do not overcrowd the pan. Fry the vadas until they turn golden brown and are crispy on the outside, turning them occasionally for even cooking. Once done, remove them from the oil and let them drain on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. -
Soaking the Vadas:
After frying, allow the vadas to cool slightly. Then, take the golden fritters and gently immerse them in the prepared yogurt mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate the vadas for approximately 30 minutes, allowing them to soak up the delicious yogurt flavor. -
Tempering the Ingredients:
While the vadas soak, prepare the tempering. Heat a small pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of sunflower oil. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and split urad dal, allowing them to crackle. Next, toss in the curry leaves, asafoetida, and halved dry red chili, stirring briefly until fragrant and crispy. -
Assembling and Serving:
After the vadas have soaked in the yogurt, carefully place them on a serving platter. Pour the hot tempering over the soaked vadas, ensuring to distribute the spices evenly. For a touch of crunch, sprinkle some boondi on top and garnish with finely chopped coriander leaves. -
Serving Suggestions:
Thayir Vada is best served chilled, making it a refreshing snack or appetizer perfect for any occasion. It pairs wonderfully with a side of Vegetable Rava Upma and a steaming cup of South Indian Filter Coffee for a delightful breakfast experience.
Conclusion
Relish the delicate balance of flavors and textures that Thayir Vada brings to your table. This recipe not only showcases the essence of South Indian cuisine but also invites you to indulge in a dish that marries comfort with culinary creativity. Whether enjoyed as a snack during a casual gathering or as an elegant appetizer for festive occasions, Thayir Vada is sure to impress and satisfy. Embrace the art of making this exquisite dish, and share it with your loved ones for an unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy!
