By Shreya Sarpal
September 5, 2025
Medu Vada are crispy, fluffy, doughnut-shaped fritters made from urad dal (black gram). They are a staple in South Indian breakfasts, usually served with coconut chutney and sambar.
1 cup skinless urad dal 2 finely chopped green chillies 1-inch grated ginger 2 tbsp finely chopped onion 1 tbsp chopped curry leaves 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves ½ tsp crushed black pepper 1 pinch hing Salt to taste Oil for deep frying
Wash and soak urad dal in water for 4–5 hours or overnight.
Drain the soaked dal and grind it with minimal water into a thick, smooth, and fluffy batter.
Mix in chopped chillies, ginger, curry leaves, coriander, pepper, hing, onions (if using), and salt, then beat the batter for 2–3 minutes to aerate.
Wet your hands, take a lemon-sized ball of batter, shape it into a doughnut, and make a hole in the centre with your thumb.
Heat oil, slide the vadas in gently, and fry on medium flame until crisp and golden brown.
Enjoy with coconut chutney and hot sambar.