Vada is a deep-fried snack that has been a popular food item in India for centuries. The origins of vada can be traced back to ancient India, where it was mentioned in the Sanskrit text "Manasollasa," which was written in the 12th century by King Someshwara III of the Western Chalukya dynasty.
The earliest form of vada was Medu vada, made with urad dal, which is a type of lentil that is native to India. The dal was soaked and ground into a fine paste, which was then seasoned with spices like cumin, coriander, and black pepper, and then deep-fried until golden brown. The resulting vada was crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Over time, vada evolved and became a popular snack across different regions of India, with each region adding its own unique twist to the recipe. For example, in South India, vada is often served with sambar and coconut chutney, while in North India, it is served with green chutney or tamarind chutney.
Today, vada is enjoyed across India and has become a beloved snack for people of all ages. It has also gained popularity around the world, with Indian restaurants and food trucks serving their own unique versions of the snack.
About Menu Vadas
Medu vada, also known as urad dal vada, is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It is made with a batter of urad dal, which is soaked and ground into a fine paste, and then deep-fried until golden brown. Medu vada is not only delicious but also a good source of protein and other nutrients. There are many variations of medu vada, and it is a perfect snack to indulge in during tea time or even as a breakfast item.
Here are 5 unique medu vada recipes that you can try at home:
1. Masala Medu Vada
If you are looking for a spicy twist to your medu vada, then this recipe is perfect for you. To make masala medu vada, you need to add a mix of spices like cumin, coriander, and red chili powder to the batter. Once the batter is well mixed, shape it into small balls and deep fry them until golden brown. The vadas will have a spicy kick and will pair well with any chutney.
Taste: Spicy
Total time: 30 minutes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Calories per serving: 150
2. Paneer Medu Vada
Paneer lovers, this one's for you! To make paneer medu vada, crumble the paneer and mix it into the batter along with chopped onions, green chilies, and coriander leaves. Shape the batter into small balls and deep-fry until crispy. The paneer adds a creamy texture to the vada and complements the crunchiness perfectly.
Taste: Creamy
Total time: 40 minutes
Prep time: 20 minutes
Calories per serving: 200
3. Cheese Medu Vada
For all the cheese lovers out there, this recipe is a must-try. To make cheese medu vada, add grated cheese to the batter and mix well. Shape the batter into small balls and deep-fry until crispy. The cheese adds a salty and tangy flavor to the vada, which is a perfect contrast to its crispy exterior.
Taste: Cheesy
Total time: 40 minutes
Prep time: 20 minutes
Calories per serving: 250
4. Spinach Medu Vada
If you're looking for a healthier alternative to the traditional medu vada, try this spinach medu vada recipe. To make this vada, add pureed spinach to the batter and mix well. Shape the batter into small balls and deep-fry until crispy. The spinach adds a refreshing flavor to the vada, and it's a great way to sneak in some greens into your diet.
Taste: Refreshing
Total time: 45 minutes
Prep time: 15 minutes
Calories per serving: 100
5. Sweet Medu Vada
For those with a sweet tooth, this recipe is perfect. To make sweet medu vada, add jaggery, cardamom powder, and grated coconut to the batter and mix well. Shape the batter into small balls and deep-fry until crispy. The vada has a unique combination of sweet and spicy flavors, making it a perfect snack to indulge in.
Taste: Sweet and Spicy
Total time: 40 minutes
Prep time: 20 minutes
Calories per serving: 180
What to Serve with These Menu Vada Recipes
Medu vada is often served with chutneys and sambar to enhance the taste of the vadas. Coconut chutney is a popular South Indian chutney made with grated coconut, green chilies, roasted chana dal, and other ingredients. Tomato chutney is a tangy and spicy chutney made with ripe tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices. Mint chutney is a refreshing and cooling chutney made with fresh mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, and spices. Peanut chutney is a nutty and spicy chutney made with roasted peanuts, garlic, red chili powder, and spices. Sambar is a lentil soup made with a variety of vegetables and spices. Serve these medu vada recipes with any of these chutneys or sambar, and enjoy a perfect snack time!
These five unique medu vada recipes are sure to add a twist to your regular medu vada and are easy to make and require minimal ingredients, making them a perfect snack for any occasion. So, go ahead and try these recipes and treat yourself to some delicious medu vadas.