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Crispy, savory lentil fritters with a surprise inside! These golden-brown vadas feature a flavorful chana dal batter wrapped around a perfectly boiled egg, a popular and protein-packed South Indian tea-time snack.
For 4 servings
Soak Dal & Boil Eggs
Prepare the Vada Batter
Combine Batter Ingredients
Crispy, savory lentil fritters with a surprise inside! These golden-brown vadas feature a flavorful chana dal batter wrapped around a perfectly boiled egg, a popular and protein-packed South Indian tea-time snack.
This south_indian recipe takes 160 minutes to prepare and yields 4 servings. At 378.43 calories per serving with 15.11g of protein, it's a moderately challenging recipe perfect for snack or appetizer.
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Shape the Vadas
Deep Fry the Vadas
Drain and Serve
Increase the number of green and red chillies, or add 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper powder to the batter for extra heat.
Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped vegetables like carrots, cabbage, or bell peppers to the batter for added texture and nutrition.
Incorporate 1 tablespoon of finely chopped mint leaves along with coriander for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
Combining lentils (chana dal) and eggs makes this snack rich in high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Chana dal is a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
The complex carbohydrates from the lentils provide a slow and steady release of energy, making it a filling snack that can keep you energized for longer.
One serving of Muttai Vadai (approximately 3 pieces) contains around 360-400 calories, primarily from the lentils, egg, and the oil absorbed during deep frying.
Muttai Vadai is a good source of protein from both the chana dal and eggs. However, since it is deep-fried, it is high in fat and calories. It's best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat or snack.
Vadas can break if the batter is too watery or if the egg is not sealed properly inside. Ensure the dal is well-drained before grinding and that there are no cracks on the surface of the vada before frying.
Yes, for a lower-fat version, you can cook them in an air fryer. Preheat to 180°C (350°F). Brush the vadas with a little oil and air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp. The texture will be less crispy than the deep-fried version but still delicious.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer to regain some of their crispiness. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make them soggy.
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