Vadai (alternatively Vada, wada, vade) is a savoury South Indian doughnut made from lentil or potato. Vada can vary in size and shape, though most are comparable to the Western doughnut. Mashed or diced potatoes and/or lentils are seasoned — sometimes sauteed — then shaped, covered in a gram flour batter and deep-fried.
Although battered and deep-fried, the finished product should not be too oily if prepared
correctly. Served in a bun with fresh spice/sweet chutney, a Vada becomes a Vada pav, a street food like the hot dog.
Other Varieties of Vada
- Dahi Vada (made by serving the Vada in a mix of yoghurt and spices)
- Ulli Vada (made of onion)
- Maddur Vada (Made with onion and not doughnut shaped)
- Paruppu Vada (Tour Daal)
- Thairu Vada (Uzhundhu Vada put in yoghurt)
- Masala Vada (a more soft and not so crisp Vada)
- Rava Vada (Vada made of semolina)
DAHI VADA
Dahi Vada is an Indian fast food, or Chaat, prepared by soaking Vadas in thick yogurt.
The hot deep fried Vadas are first put in water and then transferred to thick beaten yogurt. For best results the Vadas have to soak for at least a couple of hours before serving. To add more flavor it can be topped with mint leaves, crushed black pepper, curry powder, Chaat Masala, shredded coconuts, green Chilli or Boondi. At some places in India , especially in Maharashtra and Gujarat , a sweet taste to the Dahi seems to be preferred in addition to the garnishing mentioned above.
Sambhar Vadas (Vadas served with hot Sambar) and Rasam Vadas (Vadas served with hot Rasam) are also popular snacks in southern India .
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