Vada Curry (South Indian Spiced Lentil Curry)

“A timeless classic that transforms simple lentils into a feast - the perfect companion for your favorite South Indian breakfast!”

Vada Curry is a beloved South Indian side dish known for pairing beautifully with dosa and idiyappam. Each household has its unique version, reflecting rich family traditions and regional flavors.

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🛒 Ingredients

For Soaking

• 2 cup chana dal (split chickpeas)
• 10 - 15 dried red chilies
• 1 spoon fennel seeds
• Water for soaking

For Spice Paste

• 1 inch fresh ginger piece
• 4-5 garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp roasted chana dal (pottukadalai)
• 1 tsp poppy seeds (khus khus)
• 1 cup fresh grated coconut
• Water as needed for grinding

For the Curry

• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 10-12 fresh mint leaves
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• Pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• 2 cups water (approx.)
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

For Tempering

• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp urad dal
• Curry leaves
• 1 dried red chili

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lentils

• Soak chana dal and dried red chilies in water for 1 hour.
• Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Spice Paste

• Dry roast clove, cinnamon, cardamom
• Add 4 to 5 red chilies along with 2 to 3 green chilies.
• To this next add ginger, garlic and saute until the raw smell of garlic goes off.
• Then add pottukadalai and poppy seeds and saute until the colour of pottukadalai starts to change.
• Add curry leaves and mint leaves. Saute it well.
• Add freshly grated coconut to it. Mix it well.
• Let cool to room temperature.
• Blend roasted ingredients along with little water into a thick, smooth paste. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare and Fry Lentil Pakodas

• Drain the soaked lentils completely to remove excess water.
• Transfer them to a mixer jar, add salt and a pinch of hing (asafoetida), and grind into a coarse paste — do not add water while grinding.
• You can now cook this mixture in two ways:

Deep Fry (Traditional Method):

Heat oil in a kadai, drop small portions of the mixture as mini pakodas, and fry until lightly golden. (No need to over-fry since they’ll go into the gravy.)

Steam (Healthy Method):

Place small portions of the mixture in an idli plate or steamer and steam for 7–8 minutes. Once cooled, crumble them gently before adding to the gravy.

Step 4: Prepare the Base

• Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Add clove, bayleaf and cinnamom. saute it.
• Saute chopped onions until golden brown.
• Add tomatoes and cook until soft and mushy.
• Add fresh mint leaves and saute for a minute.

Step 5: Combine and Cook

• Add the spice paste to the pan, mix well.
• Add turmeric, red chili powder, salt, and hing.
• Gradually pour water, stirring to desired consistency.
• Add roasted chana dal and mix thoroughly.
• Cover and cook on medium flame for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Final Touch

• Check seasoning and adjust water if needed.
• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
• Prepare tempering: heat oil, add mustard seeds, urad dal, curry leaves, dried red chili until fragrant.
• Pour tempering over the vadakari and mix gently.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• With dosa: perfect crispy side
• With idiyappam: traditional pairing
• With steamed rice: wholesome meal
• With chapati: great accompaniment
• As a snack: enjoy on its own

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💡 Chef’s Tips

• Soak lentils well for even cooking
• Roast spices properly for rich flavor
• Adjust water for preferred consistency
• Customize chili quantity for heat
• Use fresh mint and coriander for freshness

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🧊 Storage

• Refrigerate up to 3 days
• Reheat gently, add water if needed
• Flavors improve overnight

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🌿 Health Benefits

Chana Dal (Split Chickpeas):

• High protein for muscle building and repair
• Rich in fiber, Iron-rich, Low glycemic

Coconut:

• Healthy fats (MCTs) for brain health
• Fiber-rich, Mineral rich, Natural energy booster

Spices & Aromatics:

• Turmeric: anti-inflammatory & antioxidant
• Ginger: aids digestion & anti-nausea
• Garlic: immune & heart health
• Mint: digestive aid & cooling
• Coriander: antioxidants & detox support

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Enjoy the comforting and exciting flavors of this traditional Vadakari — a beloved South Indian classic that’s sure to become your family favorite!

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🎥 Video Tutorial