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Healthy Dahi Vada Recipe – A Guilt-Free Twist on a Classic Indian Snack

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  • Author: Mubarra
  • Yield: 6-8 vadas 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

For the Vada (dumplings):

  • 1/4 cup split urad dal (black gram split lentils), soaked for 3-4 hours
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves
  • 1 tablespoon water (as needed for batter)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil or air fry for cooking

For the Yogurt Topping:

  • 1/2 cup low-fat plain yogurt (or Greek yogurt for added protein)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon honey (optional for slight sweetness)
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
  • Tamarind chutney (optional, use sparingly)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Vada:
    • Drain the soaked urad dal and grind it into a smooth batter using minimal water. The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape when dropped into oil.
    • Add cumin seeds, black pepper powder, ginger powder (if using), and salt to the batter. Mix well.
    • If you’re not frying, shape the batter into small doughnut-like balls and air fry them at 180°C (350°F) for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
    • Alternatively, shallow fry them with a teaspoon of olive oil until they are crisp and golden on the outside.
  • Prepare the Yogurt Topping:
    • Whisk the low-fat yogurt in a bowl until smooth.
    • Add cumin powder, black salt, chili powder, and honey (if using).
    • Adjust the seasoning to taste.
  • Assemble the Dahi Vada:
    • Soak the vadas in warm water for 5-10 minutes to soften them.
    • Once soft, gently squeeze out the excess water from the vadas.
    • Place the soaked vadas on a serving plate.
    • Pour the yogurt mixture generously over the vadas.
    • You can drizzle a little bit of tamarind chutney on top, if desired, and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Notes

The above recipe yields 6-8 vadas, Portion per person is 4 vadas depending on size.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g (With Honey)
  • Fat: 5 g
  • Protein: 8 g
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