South Indian Dal Vada Recipe: Must-Try Monsoon Snack 

By Garima Johar

August 19, 2025

The monsoon season is bound to make you crave deep-fried snacks. But to make the usual pakoras healthier, you can make dal vada, the South Indian staple, in just 5 steps with this easy recipe.

Ingredients

1 cup chana dal 1/2 cup chopped onion 1/2 teaspoon ginger paste 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves 1 tablespoon curry leaves 2 green chillies 2 teaspoons red chilli powder 1/2 teaspoon hing 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder Salt to taste Oil for deep-frying

Step 1

Rinse and soak chana dal for about 2-3 hours till the dal softens.

Step 2

Grind the soaked dal with a little water.

Step 3

Add onion, coriander, curry leaves, ginger paste, green chillies, red chilli, turmeric powder, and salt.

Step 4

Take small portions of the batter and deep fry till they are crispy.

Step 5

Serve hot with sambar or your favourite chutney.