Mix dal vada has a significant cultural aspect in South India, particularly in the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala. It is often served as a snack during various occasions and festivals.
During the Tamil festival of Pongal, mix dal vada is an essential dish in the menu. It is also a popular snack during the Diwali festival, and many families prepare it as part of the festive celebrations. In some households, mix dal vada is also served as part of a traditional breakfast meal. It is a staple food in many temples and is offered to the deity as prasad or holy offering.
Mix dal vada is a protein-rich snack that is made with lentils and is deep-fried. The nutritional content of mix dal vada may vary based on the ingredients used and the method of preparation. Lentils used in mix dal vada are an excellent source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber. They are also rich in essential vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium.
However, mix dal vada is deep-fried, which means it contains a significant amount of fat and calories. Consuming deep-fried foods regularly may not be suitable for those with a high risk of heart diseases, diabetes, or other health conditions.
It is essential to consume mix dal vada in moderation as part of a balanced diet to enjoy its nutritional benefits while limiting the intake of unhealthy fats and calories.
Recipe for mix dal vada that you can try at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chana dal (split Bengal gram)
- 1/2 cup urad dal (split black gram)
- 2-3 green chilies, chopped
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup coriander leaves, chopped
- 8-10 curry leaves, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp fennel seeds
- Salt to taste
- Oil for deep frying
Instructions:
- Rinse the chana dal and urad dal in water a couple of times and then soak them in water for 3-4 hours.
- Drain the water and grind the soaked lentils in a mixer grinder coarsely. Do not add water while grinding.
- Transfer the lentil mixture to a mixing bowl and add chopped onions, green chilies, ginger, coriander leaves, curry leaves, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, and salt. Mix well.
- Take a small portion of the mixture and shape it into a ball. Flatten it slightly between your palms to form a vada shape. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan on medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the vadas to the oil in batches. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides.
- Remove the vadas from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
- Serve hot with coconut chutney or sambar.
Enjoy the delicious mix dal vada with your family and friends!
