Dalwada, also known as Lentil Fritters, is a popular and flavorful snack that hails from the vibrant streets of India. Made from a mixture of lentils and spices, these crispy fritters are a delightful treat for your taste buds. Whether you're looking for a savory snack to enjoy with a cup of tea or want to impress your guests with a unique appetizer, Dalwada is the perfect choice. Join us as we unravel the secrets of making this delicious and nutritious snack at home.
One of the key reasons behind the popularity of Dalwada is its versatility. It can be enjoyed as a standalone snack, served as an appetizer at parties, or even used as a filling for sandwiches and wraps. The crispy texture and savory flavors make Dalwada an all-time favorite among food enthusiasts.
1 cup chana dal (split Bengal gram)
A quarter cup of yellow moong dal, also known as split yellow lentils, can add a distinct flavor and texture to your recipes.
2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
1/4 cup finely chopped onions
2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
Half a teaspoon of red chili powder, which can be adjusted according to your preferred level of spiciness, adds a fiery kick to your dish.
to taste
Oil for deep frying
Rinse the chana dal and moong dal in water.
Soak them together in enough water for about 4-5 hours or overnight.
Once soaked, drain the water from the yellow moong dal and keep it aside for further use.
Grind the dal mixture:
In a blender or food processor, add the soaked and drained dals.
Grind the soaked yellow moong dal to a coarse paste, ensuring not to add any water in the process.
mixture should be grainy but well combined.
Transfer the ground dal mixture to a mixing bowl.
Add chopped green chilies, grated ginger, onions, coriander leaves, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.
Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture is well seasoned.
In a deep pan or kadhai, heat oil over medium heat for the purpose of deep frying.
Take small portions of the dal mixture and shape them into flat patties or small round balls.
Carefully drop the shaped dalwadas into the hot oil, frying them in batches.
Continue frying the dal paste until it reaches a golden brown color and achieves a crispy texture on all sides.
Remove the fried dalwadas using a slotted spoon and place them on a kitchen towel to drain excess oil.
Serve the hot and crispy Dalwadas with your favorite chutneys, such as mint chutney or tamarind chutney.
You can also pair them with a cup of hot masala chai for a perfect evening snack.
Dalwada is a versatile and delicious snack that brings together the goodness of lentils and aromatic spices. Whether you're craving a savory treat or planning a gathering, this simple recipe allows you to create crispy fritters bursting with flavor. So, get ready to savor the delightful combination of texture and taste with homemade Dalwadas. Enjoy the crispy goodness and let this traditional Indian snack become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.