Andhra Style Multi Lentil Garelu (Vada Recipe)
A Flavorful South Indian Delight to Start Your Day
Andhra Style Multi Lentil Garelu, also known as Vada, is a classic breakfast treat from the rich culinary traditions of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. This savory, deep-fried snack, made from a blend of urad dal, chana dal, and moong dal, is traditionally prepared during festivals such as Sankranti or Pongal. Served alongside a flavorful sambar or a spicy chutney, these golden fritters are perfect for breakfast or as a tea-time snack. The combination of lentils, fresh herbs, and spices makes them not only delicious but also packed with protein and flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a warm, crispy snack, Andhra Style Multi Lentil Garelu is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1/2 cup | Soaked for 4-5 hours |
| Yellow Moong Dal (Split) | 1/2 cup | Soaked for 4-5 hours |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1/2 cup | Soaked for 4-5 hours |
| Rice Flour | 1/2 cup | Adds crispness to the batter |
| Whole Wheat Flour | 3/4 cup | Helps bind the mixture |
| Green Chillies | 8 to 9 (finely chopped) | Adds heat and flavor |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 5 to 6 sprigs (finely chopped) | Adds a fresh herbal note |
| Curry Leaves | 2 sprigs | Enhances the fragrance of the vada |
| Ginger | 2-inch piece (finely grated) | Provides warmth and depth of flavor |
| Water | As required | To adjust the consistency of the batter |
| Salt | To taste | Enhances the overall flavor |
| Oil | For deep frying | Choose a neutral oil for frying |
Allergen Information
- Gluten: Present due to the use of whole wheat flour and rice flour. Those with a gluten intolerance or celiac disease should avoid this recipe.
- Legumes: Contains chana dal, moong dal, and urad dal, which are legumes and may cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.
- Sesame/Peanuts: If you are using pre-made chutneys or sambar as accompaniments, please check for traces of sesame seeds or peanuts, as they are commonly used in these side dishes.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: This recipe is fully vegetarian, containing no animal-derived ingredients.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: To make this dish gluten-free, you can substitute whole wheat flour with gluten-free flour such as rice flour or besan (gram flour). Be mindful that this might slightly alter the texture of the batter.
- Vegan: This recipe is vegan by default, as no dairy or animal products are used.
Preparation Instructions
-
Soak the Lentils
Begin by soaking the chana dal, moong dal, and urad dal in enough water for about 4 to 5 hours. This step is crucial to soften the lentils and help achieve the perfect texture for the vada. After soaking, drain the water and set the dal aside. -
Grind the Dal
Using a grinder or a wet stone grinder, dry grind the soaked lentils into a coarse paste. Add rice flour while grinding to help bind the dal and add crispness to the vadas. The texture of the batter should be thick, but not too runny. If necessary, add a little water in increments to achieve a dough-like consistency. -
Add Spices and Flour
Transfer the ground dal mixture into a large bowl. Add the finely chopped green chillies, ginger, curry leaves, and coriander leaves to the batter. These fresh ingredients will infuse the vadas with aromatic flavors. Stir in whole wheat flour to help bind everything together and give the batter a firm consistency. -
Shape the Garelu
Now comes the fun part – shaping the vadas! Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Meanwhile, lightly grease a piece of parchment paper or butter paper with a little oil. Take a small portion of the dough (about the size of a golf ball), and flatten it gently with your fingers to form a small disc shape. Make a hole in the center using your finger to give it the classic vada shape. -
Fry to Perfection
Carefully drop the shaped vada into the hot oil. Fry the garelu on medium heat, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides. Depending on the size of your frying pan, you may need to fry them in batches. Ensure the oil is hot enough to fry the garelu evenly, but not so hot that they burn quickly. -
Drain Excess Oil
Once the garelu are golden and crispy, remove them from the oil and place them on a kitchen towel to drain any excess oil. -
Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Andhra Style Multi Lentil Garelu hot and fresh, paired with a tangy chutney or spicy sambar for the ultimate South Indian breakfast experience. These vadas are best enjoyed immediately while they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Tips and Variations
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chillies according to your preferred spice level. For a milder version, use fewer chillies or replace them with a pinch of black pepper.
- Texture: To achieve a smoother texture, you can blend the dal mixture to a finer consistency. However, a coarser grind will provide a more rustic texture that enhances the crunch of the vadas.
- Crispiness: If you find the batter too soft, add a little more rice flour or wheat flour to achieve the right consistency for frying. The batter should be thick enough to shape but still moist enough to fry evenly.
- Variation: For a twist, you can add finely chopped onions, carrots, or green beans to the batter for extra flavor and nutrition. You could also try adding a pinch of asafoetida (hing) to enhance the aroma of the vadas.
- Serving Ideas: Serve these garelu with a side of coconut chutney, tomato chutney, or mint chutney for an added layer of flavor. Pairing them with a warm bowl of sambar is another popular choice.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Approximate values for 1 serving of 2 garelus)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
These values may vary depending on the size of the vadas and the type of oil used for frying.
Conclusion
Andhra Style Multi Lentil Garelu is a traditional and nutritious South Indian snack that perfectly captures the essence of Andhra cuisine. With its crispy texture and delightful combination of lentils and spices, it makes for a filling and flavorful breakfast or snack. Whether you’re celebrating Sankranti or simply indulging in a comforting homemade dish, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy these garelu fresh and hot, and share them with loved ones for an unforgettable culinary experience!
