Traditional Medu Vada Lentil Donut

Ingredients

• 1 cup Whole Skinless Urad Dal (Black Gram)
• 2 pieces Green Chilies, finely chopped
• 1 inch Ginger, finely grated
• 10 leaves Curry Leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Whole Black Peppercorns
• 1 pinch Asafoetida (Hing)
• 2 tablespoons Rice Flour(optional)
• 0.75 teaspoon Salt
• 1 tablespoon Fresh Coconut Pieces, finely chopped(optional)
• 2 cups Vegetable Oil

Instructions

1. 1

   Wash the urad dal thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours.

2. 2

   Drain the water completely and grind the dal into a thick, smooth paste using very little ice-cold water (1-2 tablespoons).

3. 3

   Transfer the batter to a bowl and whisk it vigorously in one direction for 5 minutes to incorporate air until it becomes light and fluffy.

4. 4

   Add the chopped chilies, ginger, curry leaves, peppercorns, asafoetida, salt, and rice flour to the batter and mix well.

5. 5

   Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat; test the oil by dropping a small bit of batter to see if it rises immediately.

6. 6

   Wet your palms, take a small portion of batter, flatten it slightly, and use your thumb to make a hole in the center to form a donut shape.

7. 7

   Gently slide the vada into the hot oil and fry until both sides are golden brown and crisp.

8. 8

   Drain on paper towels and serve hot with coconut chutney and sambar.