Make Delicious Medu Vada: A Step-By-Step Guide

Medu Vada is a traditional South Indian fritter made from urad dal, known for its crispy exterior and soft interior. The batter is prepared by soaking and grinding urad dal, then seasoned with spices and herbs before being shaped into doughnut-like forms and deep-fried. Typically served with coconut chutney and sambar, Medu Vada is a popular breakfast item and snack across South India.

Harpreet Kour Updated: Mar 05, 2025, 9:38 PM IST

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Transform Your Snack Time with Homemade Medu Vada

Medu Vada are savory, doughnut-shaped fritters made from urad dal, crispy on the outside and soft inside. They're commonly enjoyed with coconut chutney and sambar as a breakfast dish or snack in South India.

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Gather Ingredients

Step 1: Gather Ingredients To make Medu Vada, you will need urad dal, water, salt, black pepper, cumin seeds, and oil for frying. Ensure you have all these ingredients ready to streamline the cooking process.

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Soak the Dal

Step 2: Soak the Dal Begin by soaking urad dal in water for about 4-6 hours. This step is crucial as it softens the dal, making it easier to grind into a smooth batter.

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Grind the Batter

Step 3: Grind the Batter After soaking, drain the dal and transfer it to a blender. Add a little water and grind until you achieve a smooth yet thick batter. The consistency is key for perfect vadas, so avoid adding too much water.

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Season the Batter

Step 4: Season the Batter Once the batter is ready, transfer it to a mixing bowl. Add salt, black pepper, and cumin seeds to enhance the flavor. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

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Shape the Vadas

Step 5: Shape the Vadas Wet your hands to prevent sticking, then take a small portion of the batter and shape it into a donut-like ring. Ensure there’s a hole in the center for even cooking.

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Deep fry the Vadas

Step 6: Fry the Vadas Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Carefully drop the shaped vadas into the hot oil. Fry until they turn golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with chutney.