These crispy, savory fritters are a classic South Indian snack made with roasted peanuts, lentils, and aromatic spices. Packed with protein and flavor, they’re an addictive tea-time treat.
Peanut Vadai (Groundnut Vadai) is a mouth-watering snack that’ll transport your taste buds straight to the streets of South India. These crispy, golden fritters are made with a delicious blend of roasted peanuts, lentils, curry leaves, and spices. With each bite, you’ll experience an explosion of savoury, nutty flavours that’ll have you reaching for more.
About the Recipe
If you’re a fan of South Indian cuisine or love unique and flavorful snacks, you must try these peanut vadai. They’re incredibly moreish, with a perfect balance of crunch and tender interior. The roasted peanuts provide an irresistible nutty richness, while the spices and curry leaves add warmth and fragrance.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What’s not to love? These tasty little bites are vegetarian, gluten-free, and packed with plant-based protein from the peanuts and lentils. They’re easy to make at home with basic ingredients. Plus, their crispy texture and bold flavors are just addictive – you won’t be able to stop at just one.
Cooking Tips
For best results, use fresh curry leaves and don’t skip the roasting step for the peanuts – it really amps up their flavor. Fry the vadai in batches so the oil stays hot, ensuring they get crispy all over. And serve them piping hot for maximum deliciousness.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
These make the perfect snack or appetizer with a cup of masala chai. You can also pack them for a tasty lunch box treat. They’re best enjoyed fresh and crispy, but will keep for 2-3 days in an airtight container at room temperature. Serving size is 4-6 pieces per person. Total preparation time is around 45 minutes.
Similar Recipes
- Masala Vada
- Medu Vada
- Pakora
- Samosa
Peanut Vadai (Groundnut Vadai)
These crispy, savory fritters are a classic South Indian snack made with roasted peanuts, lentils, and aromatic spices. Packed with protein and flavor, they’re an addictive tea-time treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Peanuts (roasted and shelled)
- 1/2 cup Bengal Gram Dal
- 1 cup Onions (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp Ginger (grated)
- 5 to 6 Dry Red Chillies
- Curry Leaves (handful)
- Coriander Leaves (handful)
- Salt as per taste
- Oil as required
Instructions
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Soak the dal and red chillies together for 1 or 2 hours.
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Drain excess water and grind to a coarse paste.
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Grind the peanuts to a fine powder and add to the paste.
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Mix well.
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Add the onions, ginger, curry leaves, coriander leaves and salt.
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Add a little water and mix well.
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Make small balls and flatten them slightly.
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Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium flame.
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Fry the prepared vadais until golden brown.
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Remove and drain excess oil.
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Serve with chutney of choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-roasted peanuts?
For best flavor, it’s recommended to roast the raw peanuts yourself before grinding them into a powder. The roasting process really enhances the nutty aroma and taste. If using pre-roasted, make sure they’re unsalted.
My batter seems too thick, what should I do?
The batter should have a thick, moldable consistency to allow shaping the vadai. If it’s overly thick, add a splash of water and mix well until you get the right texture.
How can I store leftover vadai?
Once cooled completely, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can also reheat them in an air fryer or oven to crisp them up again before serving.
What chutneys pair well with peanut vadai?
These pair beautifully with coconut chutney, mint-cilantro chutney, or a tangy tamarind sauce. The contrasting flavors complement the nutty fritters perfectly.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
For the classic crispy texture, frying is recommended. However, you can try baking at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, for a slightly healthier version. Just know the texture won’t be quite the same.
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