Aloo Vada, also known as Batata Vada, is a popular Indian snack made with spiced mashed potatoes coated in a crispy chickpea flour batter. It is typically served with chutney and makes for a delicious tea-time snack. Here’s a recipe for Aloo Vada:
Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes Ready in: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 1/2 cup chickpea flour (besan)
- 2 tablespoons rice flour (optional, for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1 green chili, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- A few curry leaves, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Oil for deep frying
For the batter:
- 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, ginger paste, chopped green chili, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin seeds, asafoetida, curry leaves, and salt. Mix well to form a smooth and well-combined mixture.
- Divide the potato mixture into small lemon-sized balls and shape them into flat discs. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, prepare the batter by mixing chickpea flour, turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and enough water to make a smooth and thick batter. The consistency should be similar to a pancake batter.
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan or kadai over medium heat.
- Dip each potato disc into the prepared batter, making sure it is evenly coated.
- Gently slide the coated vada into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy. Flip the vada occasionally to ensure even frying.
- Once cooked, remove the vada from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on a kitchen paper towel.
- Repeat the process with the remaining potato discs and batter.
- Serve the hot and crispy Aloo Vada with green chutney or tamarind chutney.
Aloo Vada is best enjoyed when it is freshly prepared and still warm. The crispy outer layer and the flavorful potato filling make it a delightful snack that is loved by many.
