Introduction:
Dahi Bhalla, also known as Dahi Vada, is a popular and refreshing
Indian street food and snack that is loved for its delightful combination of
flavors and textures. These soft lentil dumplings soaked in creamy yogurt and
garnished with tangy and spicy chutneys are a treat to the taste buds. In this
article, we will explore the art of making delicious Dahi Bhalla, with a
step-by-step recipe and answers to some frequently asked questions. Get ready
to embark on a flavorful and tangy journey!
Dahi Bhalla: The Iconic Indian Snack
Dahi Bhalla is a beloved snack that holds a special place in
Indian cuisine. It is commonly found in street food stalls, restaurants, and
festive gatherings. The soft and spongy lentil dumplings, combined with the
cool and creamy yogurt, create a perfect harmony of flavors that leaves you
wanting more.
Dahi Bhalla Recipe: Unveiling the Culinary Magic
Here's a delightful and authentic Dahi Bhalla recipe that will
bring a burst of flavors to your plate:
Ingredients: For Bhalla:
·
Urad dal (black gram
lentils): 1 cup
·
Moong dal (split green
gram): 1/2 cup
·
Ginger: 1 inch (finely
chopped)
·
Green chilies: 2-3
(finely chopped)
·
Asafoetida (hing): a
pinch
·
Baking soda: 1/4
teaspoon
·
Salt: to taste
·
Oil: for deep frying
For Yogurt:
·
Fresh yogurt: 2 cups
·
Sugar: 1 tablespoon
·
Salt: a pinch
For Tamarind Chutney:
·
Tamarind pulp: 1/2 cup
·
Jaggery: 1/4 cup
·
Cumin powder: 1/2
teaspoon
·
Red chili powder: 1/2
teaspoon
·
Salt: to taste
For Green Chutney:
·
Fresh coriander leaves:
1 cup
·
Mint leaves: 1/2 cup
·
Green chilies: 2-3
·
Ginger: 1/2 inch
·
Lemon juice: 1
tablespoon
·
Salt: to taste
For Garnish:
·
Roasted cumin powder
·
Red chili powder
·
Chopped coriander leaves
Instructions: For Bhalla:
1.
Soak urad dal and moong
dal in water separately for 4-5 hours.
2.
Drain the soaked dals
and grind them together to a smooth paste, adding very little water if needed.
3.
Add chopped ginger,
green chilies, asafoetida, baking soda, and salt to the dal paste. Mix well.
4.
Heat oil in a deep pan
for frying. Take small portions of the dal mixture and drop them gently into
the hot oil.
5.
Fry the bhallas until
they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
6.
Remove the bhallas from
the oil and place them in a bowl of water for 15-20 minutes. This helps in
making them soft.
For Yogurt:
1.
Whisk the fresh yogurt
until smooth. Add sugar and a pinch of salt. Mix well and keep it chilled.
For Tamarind Chutney:
1.
In a saucepan, add
tamarind pulp, jaggery, cumin powder, red chili powder, and salt.
2.
Cook the mixture on low
heat until the jaggery melts and the chutney thickens. Allow it to cool.
For Green Chutney:
1.
Blend together fresh
coriander leaves, mint leaves, green chilies, ginger, lemon juice, and salt to
a smooth paste.
Assembling Dahi Bhalla:
1.
Squeeze the water out of
the soaked bhallas gently and place them on a serving plate.
2.
Pour the chilled yogurt
over the bhallas generously.
3.
Drizzle the tamarind
chutney and green chutney over the yogurt.
4.
Garnish with roasted
cumin powder, red chili powder, and chopped coriander leaves.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions about Dahi Bhalla
Q: Can I use only urad dal for making bhallas?
A: Yes, you can use
only urad dal to make bhallas. The combination of urad dal and moong dal gives
a softer texture to the bhallas.
Q: How long can I store Dahi Bhalla?
A: Dahi Bhalla is best served
fresh. However, you can refrigerate leftover bhallas in an airtight container
for up to 2 days.
Q: Can I add boondi to Dahi Bhalla for extra crunch?
A: Yes,
adding boondi to Dahi Bhalla enhances the texture and adds a delightful crunch.
You can sprinkle some boondi on top of the yogurt while serving.
Conclusion:
Dahi Bhalla is a quintessential Indian snack that elevates the
culinary experience with its delightful flavors and textures. Whether it's a
festive occasion or a simple evening snack, Dahi Bhalla never fails to impress.
With this authentic recipe and the answers to frequently asked questions, you
can now master the art of making this beloved delicacy at home. So, gather your
ingredients, and get ready to indulge in the irresistible goodness of Dahi
Bhalla!