Andhra Style Bobbarlu Vada (Alsanda Vada) Recipe – Spicy Lobia Vada
The Andhra Style Bobbarlu Vada, also known as Alsanda Vada, is a traditional snack from Andhra Pradesh. Made with black-eyed beans (lobia), this dish combines earthy flavors, a spicy kick, and a healthy twist. These vadas are shallow-fried using a Kuzhi Paniyaram pan, making them a guilt-free indulgence. Perfect for tea-time snacking, they pair beautifully with spicy coconut chutney and a steaming cup of chai.
Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that’s bound to become a household favorite!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Black-Eyed Beans (Lobia) | 1 cup |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 |
| Green Chilli, finely chopped | 1 |
| Red Chilli Powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves, chopped | 1 sprig |
| Ginger, chopped | 1 inch |
| Garlic, chopped | 4 cloves |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower Oil | As needed |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Preparation and Cooking Details
| Steps | Details |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 2 hours |
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 2 hours 30 mins |
| Servings | 4 |
| Course | Snack |
| Cuisine | Andhra |
| Diet Type | Vegetarian |
Instructions
Step 1: Soak the Black-Eyed Beans
- Rinse 1 cup of black-eyed beans thoroughly and soak them in water for at least 2 hours. This softens the beans, making them easier to grind.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
- Drain the soaked beans and transfer them to a mixer or food processor. Grind the beans coarsely. Ensure there are no whole beans left, as they may pop while frying.
- Add the chopped onion, green chili, curry leaves, ginger, garlic, cumin seeds, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt to the mixture.
- Pulse everything together to combine well. Add a splash of water if the batter feels too dry but ensure it remains thick enough to hold its shape.
Step 3: Heat the Kuzhi Paniyaram Pan
- Heat a Kuzhi Paniyaram pan (or an appe pan) on medium heat. Add a drop of sunflower oil to each cavity of the pan.
- Once the pan is hot, scoop small portions of the vada batter and gently place them in the cavities.
Step 4: Cook the Vadas
- Cover the pan with a lid and allow the vadas to steam for a few minutes. This helps the top layer cook evenly.
- Check if the top part has set. Add another drop of oil to each cavity and flip the vadas using a small flat spoon.
- Cook until the vadas turn golden brown and crispy on both sides.
Step 5: Test for Doneness
- Insert a toothpick or knife into the center of a vada. If it comes out clean, the vada is fully cooked.
- Repeat the process for the remaining batter.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the hot Andhra Style Bobbarlu Vada with spicy coconut chutney. Pair it with a cup of chai for a perfect evening snack.
Chef’s Tips
- Consistency Matters: The batter should be coarse but sticky, ensuring the vadas hold together during cooking.
- Oil Management: Use minimal oil in the paniyaram pan to keep the vadas light and healthy.
- Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) or finely chopped coriander leaves for additional flavor.
This Andhra Style Bobbarlu Vada recipe is a healthier alternative to deep-fried versions, capturing the authentic taste of traditional Andhra snacks with a modern, health-conscious twist. Whether served at a family gathering or as a tea-time treat, these vadas are sure to delight every palate.
