‘Parippu Vada’ also called ‘Dal Vada’ which translates to Lentil fritters in English is a popular south indian snack and appetizer .For those who have never had it before ,it is similar to ‘falafel’ but with a little different texture and a little more spice and flavor .It is traditionally made with split bengal gram which is  a type of lentil .A variation is to add ‘toor dal’ or split pigeon lentils to the split bengal gram in the ratio 11/2 to 1/2 .The process starts with soaking the dal  in water for about 3 to 4 hours .The soaked dal is then  ground into a coarse paste preferably in a grinder to which onions, chillies ,curry leaves and spices are added .The dough is shaped into small patties which are flattened and then deep fried. It tastes best when it is hot and crisp. Coconut chutney is a good accompaniment with it , although it tastes best by itself. This is a very common snack in many hotels and restaurants .It goes perfectly well as an appetizer at parties, potluck and also a delicious afternoon snack with a cup of tea!

Parippu Vada (Lentil Fritters)

• Servings: 4-6
• Time: 1 hour
• Difficulty: medium
• Print

A spicy and delicious appetizer based on Indian cuisine and perfect for parties and potlucks.

Ingredients

• 2 cups chana dal (split bengal gram)
• 1/2 onion or 5 shallots finely cut
• 2-3 Thai green chillies finely cut
• 5-6 curry leaves
• 3-4 red chilly flakes
• 1 inch ginger finely cut
• curry leaves
• a sprinkle of asafoetida
• salt to taste
• oil for shallow or deep fry

Directions

1. Soak the chana dal in water for 3 to 4 hours .
2. Drain the soaked dal using a colander and make sure there is no  water left.
3. Grind the soaked chana dal coarsely with red chillies .It is okay to have a couple of lentils uncrushed.
4. Add the onions,chillies,ginger,curry leaves and asafoetida.
5. Add salt to taste.
6. Take a small ball of the dough and shape it into a patty by flattening with your palm.
7. These patties can be deep fried till you get a golden brown color.
8. Enjoy the  spicy dal fritters with coconut chutney and with a hot cup of tea!