Sambhar Vada
South Indian • Vegetarian
How to Make Sambhar Vada (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Sambhar Vada is a beloved South Indian snack that beautifully marries the crispiness of vada (fried lentil doughnut) with the tangy, aromatic flavors of sambhar (spiced lentil stew). Originating from Tamil Nadu, this dish has gained popularity across India for its unique combination of textures and flavors. The vada, made from urad dal (split black gram), is traditionally deep-fried, but our health-conscious version opts for air-frying or shallow frying to reduce oil content while maintaining authenticity. Sambhar is a nutritious stew, brimming with vegetables like drumsticks, carrots, and pumpkin, and flavored with tamarind, curry leaves, and a special sambhar masala. This dish is a staple in South Indian households, especially during festivals and family gatherings, and is served with coconut chutney for an added burst of flavor. Sambhar Vada is a nutritious vegetarian snack that appeals to all ages, making it a great addition to breakfast or lunch menus. It is high in protein and fiber, thanks to the dal and vegetables. The tangy sambhar complements the mildly spiced vada, creating a comforting and satisfying experience. Whether enjoyed in bustling Chennai eateries or homemade for a weekend treat, Sambhar Vada remains a symbol of the rich culinary heritage of South India. Its combination of taste and nutrition makes it a top choice for those seeking healthy Indian recipes.
Ingredients(for 2 vadas with 1 katori sambhar)
- 1/2 cup Urad dal (split black gram, soaked for 4 hours)
- 2 tbsp Rice flour (for crispiness) - optional
- 1 Green chilies (finely chopped) - optional
- 1 tsp Ginger (grated)
- 6-8 Curry leaves (chopped)
- 1/2 tsp Black peppercorns (crushed) - optional
- to taste Salt
- 1 cup Mixed vegetables (carrot, drumstick, pumpkin, diced)
- 1/2 cup Toor dal (split pigeon peas, soaked)
- 2 tbsp Tamarind pulp (soaked and strained)
- 2 tsp Sambhar powder (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 tsp Mustard seeds (for tempering)
- 2 tbsp Oil (preferably cold-pressed)
- a pinch Asafoetida (hing) (for tempering) - optional
- 1/4 tsp Red chili powder (optional) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Soak urad dal for at least 4 hours. Drain and grind with ginger, green chili, and a pinch of salt to a smooth, thick batter. Add rice flour and curry leaves, mix well.
5 minutes
For fluffier vada, avoid adding excess water during grinding.
- 2
Shape the batter into small doughnuts (vada) with a hole in the center. Lightly grease your hands for easy shaping.
5 minutes
Wet your palms for smoother shaping and prevent sticking.
- 3
Air-fry vadas at 180°C for 15 minutes or shallow fry in minimal oil until golden brown and crisp.
15 minutes
Flip vadas halfway for even crispiness in air fryer.
- 4
Pressure cook toor dal with chopped vegetables (carrot, drumstick, pumpkin) until soft. Mash slightly.
10 minutes
Adding a pinch of turmeric boosts color and nutrition.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Our Sambhar Vada recipe uses air-frying and a generous mix of vegetables in sambhar, ensuring you get a balanced meal with high protein and low fat. Lentils help maintain energy levels, while vegetables supply micronutrients vital for immunity and digestion. By limiting oil and using wholesome ingredients, it becomes a smart choice for calorie-conscious eaters looking for authentic Indian snacks.
Sambhar Vada is packed with protein from urad dal and toor dal, dietary fiber from assorted vegetables, and essential vitamins like vitamin A, C, and folate. The use of minimal oil and air-frying reduces saturated fat, making it heart-friendly. Tamarind provides antioxidants, while the spices in sambhar deliver anti-inflammatory benefits. The dish is also gluten-free if rice flour is used for the vada, making it suitable for sensitive diets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh urad dal for softer vadas.
- 💡Tip 2: Always temper sambhar for authentic flavor.
- 💡Tip 3: Add drumstick for signature South Indian aroma.
- 💡Tip 4: Air-fry vadas for a guilt-free treat.
- 💡Tip 5: Let vadas soak briefly in sambhar for best texture.
Storage & Serving
Keeps for 6-8 hours at room temperature. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat vadas in air fryer for crispiness before serving.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 180.0 kcal |
