Kara Vadai / Spicy Fritters
Kara vadai is a popular South Indian savory snack, known for its crispy texture and bold, spicy flavors. Made primarily from soaked and ground lentils like peas dal and urad dal, the mixture is seasoned with green chilies, curry leaves, ginger, and sometimes fennel seeds or pepper for added aroma...
Ingredients
Idli rice1cup
Urad dal2tbsp
Peas parippu2tbsp
dried red chilli Dried red chilli3
green chilli Green chilli2
Chopped ginger1tbsp
Asafoetida powder1/2tsp
Baking soda2pinch
Curry leaves2sprigs
Salt
Oil for frying
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
86.3kcal (4.31%)
Protein
3.1g (6.26%)
Carbs
17.6g (6.38%)
Sugars
0.3g (0.6%)
Healthy Fat
0.3g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Kara Vadai / Spicy Fritters
Preparation
- Step 1
Wash the idli rice and soak for 2 hours.
- Step 2
Wash the peas parippu and soak for 2 hours along with dried red chilli.
- Step 3
Wash the urad dal and soak for 2 hours. Soak all these separately.
Grinding
- Step 1
Grind the idli rice to a fine paste by adding little water. Set aside.
- Step 2
Grind the urad dal to a fine paste using 1-2 tbsp of water. Do not add too much water. Set aside.
- Step 3
Reserve 1 tbsp of soaked peas parippu for texture. Coarsely grind the remaining peas parippu along with dried red chilli without adding water.
Mixing and Frying
- Step 1
Transfer all the ground mixture to a mixing bowl.
- Step 2
Add reserved soaked whole peas parippu, chopped ginger, chopped green chilli, chopped curry leaves, asafoetida powder, baking soda, and salt to the ground mixture.
- Step 3
Mix everything well. The batter should be in a thick dropping consistency.
- Step 4
Heat oil in a khadai for deep frying on medium heat.
- Step 5
Grease your hands or wet them slightly with water. Take a small ball of the mixture and carefully drop it into the hot oil.
- Step 6
Fry a few at a time, turning occasionally until golden brown and crisp.
- Step 7
Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with coconut chutney or tomato chutney.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
86.3kcal (4.31%)
Protein
3.1g (6.26%)
Carbs
17.6g (6.38%)
Sugars
0.3g (0.6%)
Healthy Fat
0.3g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Ensure the batter is thick and not runny to maintain the shape of the fritters.
Do not overcrowd the frying pan to ensure even cooking.
Use medium heat while frying to avoid burning the fritters.
Serve the fritters immediately for the best texture and flavor.
FAQS
Can I use regular rice instead of idli rice?
Idli rice is recommended for its texture, but you can substitute it with regular rice if needed. The fritters may have a slightly different texture.
What can I serve Kara Vadai with?
Kara Vadai pairs well with coconut chutney, tomato chutney, or even ketchup for a quick dip.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Ensure it is brought to room temperature before frying.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
While traditionally deep-fried, you can try baking them at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown, though the texture may differ.
How do I store leftover fritters?
Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
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Gayatri
(@rene121)
Cooking is my passion. Flavours unite us 🤝..I love to create new recipes... and also love to learn about different cuisine. Cooking is my passion. Flavours unite us 🤝..I love to create new recipes... and also love to learn about different cuisine. ...
Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia