Keerai Vadai Recipe: A Crispy and Delicious South Indian Snack
Keerai Vadai, a South Indian favorite, combines crispy texture with the earthy flavor of fresh spinach, creating a snack perfect for any occasion. Served with coconut chutney and filter coffee, this dish transforms your tea time into an irresistible culinary experience. Follow this step-by-step recipe to make perfect Keerai Vadai right at home.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Chana Dal (Split Bengal Gram) | 1 cup | Soaked for 2 hours |
| Spinach | 1 cup | Finely chopped |
| Onion | 1 medium | Finely chopped |
| Green Chilies | 2 | Finely chopped |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Finely chopped |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece | Finely chopped |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 teaspoon | Whole |
| Salt | As per taste | – |
| Olive Oil | For deep frying | – |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including soaking time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Yield
- Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chana Dal
- Rinse the chana dal thoroughly and soak it in water for 2 hours. Drain well.
- Reserve 1 tablespoon of soaked chana dal and set it aside for added texture later.
Step 2: Grind the Dal
- Transfer the remaining soaked chana dal to a blender or food processor.
- Add green chilies, garlic, ginger, cumin seeds, and salt. Blend the mixture into a coarse paste without adding water.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
- Scoop the paste into a large mixing bowl.
- Add the finely chopped spinach, onions, and the reserved chana dal for extra crunch. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Shape the Vadai
- Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into flat, round patties with your hands.
- Ensure they are uniform in size for even frying.
Step 5: Fry the Vadai
- Heat olive oil in a deep frying pan or kadai over medium heat.
- Carefully slide the shaped vadai into the hot oil, a few at a time.
- Fry until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides, flipping as needed.
- Remove the fried vadai and place them on a kitchen towel to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Serve Hot
- Arrange the crispy Keerai Vadai on a serving plate.
- Pair with coconut chutney and a cup of filter coffee for an authentic South Indian experience.
Tips for Perfect Keerai Vadai
- Texture: Ensure the dal is ground coarsely to give the vadai its characteristic crunch.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain medium heat while frying to cook the vadai evenly and avoid burning.
- Additions: You can enhance the flavor with a pinch of asafoetida or curry leaves.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
Keerai Vadai is not just a snack but a delightful representation of South Indian culinary artistry. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed during a quiet evening, these golden-fried beauties never fail to impress. Try this recipe today and bring a taste of Southern India into your kitchen!
