Baked Chana Dal Vada Recipe
Description:
The Baked Chana Dal Vada is the perfect guilt-free snack for those who are conscious of their eating habits. Unlike the traditional deep-fried version, this recipe offers a healthier alternative by baking the fritters in the oven with minimal oil. Packed with the goodness of chana dal (Bengal gram), aromatic spices, and fresh herbs, these vadas are sure to delight your taste buds while keeping your health in check. Whether you serve them during festive occasions or as an appetizer for guests, they will surely be a hit. Serve these crispy and flavorful vadas warm with refreshing mint chutney and tangy khajur imli chutney for the perfect snack.
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chana dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1 cup (soaked in water for 3-4 hours) |
| Fennel seeds (Saunf) | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Green chillies | 2 (adjust to taste) |
| Curry leaves | 8 |
| Onion | 1/2 (finely chopped) |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 1/4 cup |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece (coarsely chopped) |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Baking soda | 1/4 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Value (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
Preparation Time
- Soaking Time: 3-4 hours
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 195 minutes (including soaking time)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chana Dal:
Start by washing the chana dal thoroughly and soaking it in water for about 3-4 hours. Once soaked, drain the water and set the dal aside. -
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) to ensure it’s hot when you’re ready to bake the vadas. -
Prepare the Mixture:
In a food processor or blender, combine the soaked and drained chana dal, fennel seeds, cumin seeds, green chillies, curry leaves, fresh coriander leaves, ginger, garlic, and salt. Grind the ingredients into a coarse mixture. Add a little water if necessary to help blend it, but be cautious not to make it too smooth. The mixture should retain some texture. -
Mix with Onion and Baking Soda:
Transfer the ground mixture into a large mixing bowl. Add the finely chopped onion and baking soda to the mixture, and mix everything thoroughly. -
Shape the Vadas:
To shape the vadas, lightly grease your palms with a bit of oil. Take small portions of the mixture and form them into flat, round discs of about 2-3 inches in diameter. Arrange them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, making sure the vadas are spaced apart. -
Bake the Vadas:
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 18-20 minutes, or until the vadas turn golden brown and crisp on the outside. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook. -
Serve:
Once baked, remove the vadas from the oven and let them cool down slightly. Serve them warm with mint chutney and khajur imli chutney for a delightful snack.
Tips for the Best Baked Chana Dal Vada
- Texture: For the best texture, make sure to grind the dal to a coarse consistency. If the mixture is too smooth, the vadas may not hold their shape well during baking.
- Spice Level: Adjust the number of green chillies according to your spice preference.
- Baking Time: Depending on your oven, you might need to adjust the baking time slightly. Keep an eye on the vadas, and once they are golden brown, they are ready.
- Serving: These baked chana dal vadas can be served not only as a snack but also as a side dish with a variety of chutneys or yogurt.
Enjoy these healthier, baked versions of the classic chana dal vadas, and impress your family and guests with this delightful Indian treat!
