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Crispy, savory onion fritters from Kerala, perfect for a rainy day with a cup of chai. These golden-brown snacks are packed with the sweetness of onions and a gentle kick of spices.
Prepare the Onions
Add Aromatics and Spices
Form the Vada Mixture
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Crispy, savory onion fritters from Kerala, perfect for a rainy day with a cup of chai. These golden-brown snacks are packed with the sweetness of onions and a gentle kick of spices.
This kerala recipe takes 35 minutes to prepare and yields 4 servings. At 347.03 calories per serving with 9.79g of protein, it's a beginner-friendly recipe perfect for snack or appetizer.
Heat the Oil
Fry the Vadas
Serve Hot
Mix in 1/2 cup of finely chopped spinach (palak) or fenugreek leaves (methi) with the onions for added flavor and nutrition.
Increase the number of green chilies to 4-5 or add 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper powder for an extra spicy kick.
For a crunchy texture, add 2 tablespoons of crushed cashews or peanuts to the vada mixture.
Add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh cilantro or mint leaves to the mixture for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
Onions are an excellent source of quercetin, a powerful flavonoid antioxidant that helps fight inflammation and protect cells from oxidative damage.
Besan (gram flour) is made from chickpeas and provides a good amount of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle building, repair, and overall body function.
The spices used, such as ginger, fennel seeds, and hing (asafoetida), are well-known in traditional medicine for their digestive properties, helping to reduce gas and bloating.
Onions are a good source of dietary fiber, which supports a healthy digestive system and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
This usually happens for two reasons: either the batter was too watery, or the oil was not hot enough. Ensure you don't add any extra water to the mixture and fry the vadas in oil that is at a consistent medium-high temperature.
Yes, you can make a healthier version in an air fryer. Shape the vadas, spray them lightly with oil, and air fry at 180°C (355°F) for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The texture will be less crispy than the deep-fried version but still delicious.
One serving of approximately 3 vadas contains around 350-400 calories. The majority of the calories come from the besan and the oil absorbed during deep-frying.
Ulli Vada is a deep-fried snack and is high in fat and calories, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat. The onions and spices do offer some health benefits, such as antioxidants and digestive aids.
For maximum crispiness, ensure your onions are sliced paper-thin. You can also slightly increase the ratio of rice flour to besan (e.g., 1/3 cup rice flour to 1 cup besan). Frying in hot oil is also crucial.
It is best to fry the vadas immediately after preparing the mixture. If left to sit for too long, the onions will continue to release water, making the batter runny and resulting in oily vadas.