Dahi Bhalla Recipe

Dahi Bhalla, also known as Dahi Vada, is a famous Indian snack made out of deep-fried lentil dumplings (vadas) with several sour and savory chutneys. It’s a delightful and refreshing dish that’s perfect for hot summer days. Read on to know more about Dahi Bhalla Recipe.

About Dahi Bhalla Recipe

Dahi Bhalla is a traditional Indian delicacy that consists of deep-fried lentil dumplings that have been soaked in yogurt and topped with fragrant chutneys. Dahi Bhalla is made by combining crushed lentils with spices, shaping them into dumplings, and then deep-frying them till golden brown. The cooked dumplings are then immersed in water to soften and spongify them. They are then topped with thick yogurt that has been seasoned with salt and spices. Finally, tamarind chutney, mint-coriander chutney, roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, and chaat masala are drizzled over the meal. As a consequence, the texture is crunchy, soft, and creamy, with sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. Dahi Bhalla is a pleasant and filling snack popular in India.

Time	Difficulty	Serves
2 hours 35 Minutes	Easy	2

How To Make Dahi Bhalla at Home (Step Wise)

Here’s how to make Dahi Bhalla in brief, easy steps:-

Step 1: Soak the lentils: Rinse 1 cup of urad dal (split black gram) and soak it in water for 4-6 hours or overnight. Drain the water before using.

Step 2: Grind the lentils: Transfer the soaked and drained urad dal to a blender or a grinding stone. Grind it into a smooth paste, adding a little water if needed. The batter should be thick and fluffy.

Step 3: Ferment the batter: Transfer the ground batter to a bowl and cover it with a cloth. Let it ferment for 2-4 hours or more, depending on the weather conditions. The batter will rise and develop a slightly tangy flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the chutneys: While the batter is fermenting, prepare the chutneys. Make tamarind chutney by simmering tamarind pulp, jaggery or sugar, and spices. Also, make mint-coriander chutney by blending fresh mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, lemon juice, and spices.

Step 5: Fry the vadas: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer. Take small portions of the fermented batter and drop them gently into the hot oil. Fry the vadas until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oil and drain the excess oil on a paper towel.

Step 6: Soak the vadas: Once the vadas are fried, transfer them to a bowl of lukewarm water and let them soak for 15-20 minutes. This helps in making the vadas soft and spongy.

Step 7: Assemble the Dahi Bhalla: Take the soaked vadas out of the water and gently squeeze them to remove excess water. Arrange the vadas on a serving plate or bowl. Pour thick, beaten yogurt over the vadas, covering them completely.

Step 8: Garnish and serve: Drizzle tamarind chutney and mint-coriander chutney over the yogurt-covered vadas. Sprinkle roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, and chaat masala on top. You can also add some fresh coriander leaves for garnish.

Preparation for Dahi Bhalla Recipe

Here’s how to make an easy Dahi Bhalla recipe:-

1. Urad dal (split black gram): 1 cup – Rinse the dal thoroughly and soak it in water for 4-6 hours or overnight. Drain the water before using.
2. Yogurt (Dahi): 2 cups – Use thick, creamy yogurt for best results. If the yogurt is not already beaten, whisk it until smooth before using. You can also refrigerate the yogurt in advance to keep it chilled.
3. Tamarind chutney: You can prepare the tamarind chutney in advance or use store-bought. If making it at home, soak a small amount of tamarind in warm water for 15-20 minutes, then extract the pulp and discard the seeds and fibers. You can add jaggery or sugar, as per your taste, to balance the tanginess.
4. Mint-coriander chutney: Prepare the mint-coriander chutney by blending together fresh mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, lemon juice, salt, and a pinch of sugar. Adjust the spice levels as per your preference.
5. Roasted cumin powder: Dry roast cumin seeds in a pan until fragrant, then grind them into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.
6. Red chili powder: Keep some red chili powder handy for sprinkling on top of the Dahi Bhalla. You can adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
7. Chaat masala: If you don’t have ready-made chaat masala, you can prepare it at home by mixing together dried mango powder (amchur), black salt, roasted cumin powder, coriander powder, black pepper, and a pinch of asafoetida. Adjust the proportions according to your taste preferences.
8. Fresh coriander leaves: Wash and finely chop some fresh coriander leaves for garnishing the Dahi Bhalla.

Ingredients for Dahi Bhalla Recipe

Let’s look at the ingredients for the easy Dahi Bhalla recipe:

For Vadas (Lentil Dumplings):

• 1 cup urad dal (split black gram)
• Water for soaking
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon of ginger paste
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• Oil for deep frying

For Assembly and Garnish:

• 2 cups thick yogurt (dahi)
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black salt
• Tamarind chutney
• Mint-coriander chutney
• Roasted cumin powder
• Red chili powder
• Chaat masala
• Chopped fresh coriander leaves

Method/Steps for Cooking Dahi Bhalla Recipe

Here’s a step-by-step method for cooking an easy Dahi Bhalla recipe:

Step 1: Soaking the lentils

• Rinse 1 cup of urad dal (split black gram) thoroughly and soak it in water for 4-6 hours or overnight.
• Drain the water from the soaked dal before using it.

Step 2: Grinding the lentils

• Transfer the soaked and drained urad dal to a blender or a grinding stone.
• Grind it into a smooth paste, adding a little water if needed. The batter should be thick and fluffy.

Step 3: Fermenting the batter

• Transfer the ground batter to a bowl and cover it with a cloth.
• Let it ferment for 2-4 hours or more, depending on the weather conditions. The batter will rise and develop a slightly tangy flavor.

Step 4: Preparing the chutneys

• While the batter is fermenting, prepare the chutneys.
• Make tamarind chutney by simmering tamarind pulp, jaggery or sugar, and spices in water until it thickens.
• Make mint-coriander chutney by blending fresh mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, lemon juice, and spices to a smooth consistency. Adjust the spice levels as per your preference.

Step 5: Frying the vadas

• Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer.
• Take small portions of the fermented batter and drop them gently into the hot oil.
• Fry the vadas until they turn golden brown and crispy.
• Remove the fried vadas from the oil and drain the excess oil on a paper towel.

Step 6: Soaking the vadas

• Once the vadas are fried, transfer them to a bowl of lukewarm water.
• Let them soak for 15-20 minutes. This helps in making the vadas soft and spongy.

Step 7: Assembling the Dahi Bhalla

• Take the soaked vadas out of the water and gently squeeze them to remove excess water.
• Arrange the vadas on a serving plate or bowl.
• Pour thick, beaten yogurt over the vadas, covering them completely.
• Season the yogurt with salt and black salt according to taste.

Step 8: Garnishing and Serving

• Drizzle tamarind chutney and mint-coriander chutney over the yogurt-covered vadas.
• Sprinkle roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, and chaat masala on top.
• Garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves.
• Serve the Dahi Bhalla immediately as a refreshing snack or appetizer.

Remember, you can adjust the garnishes and seasonings according to your taste preferences.

Any Alternate Way to Make Dahi Bhalla Recipe

People often wonder how to make Dahi Bhalla interesting. Here, we’ll look at an alternate easy Dahi Bhalla recipe that is packed with nutrition and taste.

Step 1: Soaking the lentils

• Rinse 1 cup of urad dal (split black gram) thoroughly and soak it in hot water for 1-2 hours.
• Drain the water from the soaked dal before using it.

Step 2: Grinding the lentils

• Transfer the soaked and drained urad dal to a blender or food processor.
• Grind it into a smooth paste, adding a little water if needed. The batter should be thick and fluffy.

Step 3: Making the vadas

• Add salt, cumin seeds, ginger paste, and a pinch of asafoetida (hing) to the batter. Mix well.
• Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer.
• Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy.
• Remove the fried vadas from the oil and drain the excess oil on a paper towel.

Step 4: Assembling the Dahi Bhalla

• Take a bowl and add water.
• Place the fried vadas in the water and let them soak for a few minutes.
• Squeeze the excess water from the vadas and transfer them to a serving plate.

Step 5: Adding yogurt and garnishes

• Pour thick, beaten yogurt over the vadas, covering them completely.
• Drizzle tamarind chutney and mint-coriander chutney over the yogurt-covered vadas.
• Sprinkle roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, and chaat masala on top.
• Garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves.

Step 6: Serving

• Serve the Dahi Bhalla immediately as a delicious snack or appetizer.

This shortcut method skips the fermentation step and reduces the soaking time for the lentils. The vadas might not be as soft and spongy as the traditional method, but they will still be crispy and tasty. Enjoy your quick and easy Dahi Bhalla!

Nutritional Value in Dahi Bhalla Recipe

Here’s the nutritional value of the easy Dahi Bhalla recipe.

Calories	Carbohydrates	Protein	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
200 – 300	30 – 40 gms	10 – 15 gms	10 – 15 gms	5 – 8 gms	Varied

Pro Tips to Make the Best Dahi Bhalla Recipe at Home

Here are some pro tips for how to make dahi bhalla recipe at home:

• Soak and grind the urad dal to a smooth and fluffy consistency.
• Allow the batter to ferment well for enhanced flavor.
• Fry the vadas in small batches at medium-high heat for even cooking.
• Soak the fried vadas in lukewarm water to make them soft and spongy.
• Use thick and creamy yogurt for a luscious texture.
• Balance the flavors with the right amount of seasoning and chutneys.
• Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a fresh flavor.

Health Benefits of Dahi Bhalla Recipe

Here are a few health benefits of the Dahi Bhalla recipe:

• Good source of protein for muscle health and repair. (Check out the protein-rich foods list)
• Provides dietary fiber for improved digestion.
• Contains essential vitamins and minerals.
• Yogurt-based, which supports gut health.
• Can be made with healthier cooking techniques.

It’s important to note that the specific health benefits can vary based on the recipe and ingredients used. Additionally, portion control and moderation are key to enjoying Dahi Bhalla as part of a balanced diet.

Tips to Limit the Calorie in Dahi Bhalla Recipe

Here are some tips on how to make a Dahi Bhalla recipe with fewer calories:

1. Portion Control: Limit the serving size of Dahi Bhalla to manage calorie intake. Enjoy a smaller portion and savor the flavors without overindulging.
2. Baking Instead of Frying: Instead of deep frying the vadas, consider baking them in the oven. This reduces the amount of added oil and overall calorie content.
3. Use Low-Fat Yogurt: Opt for low-fat or Greek yogurt instead of full-fat yogurt to reduce the calorie content of the dish while still maintaining a creamy texture.
4. Reduce Toppings: Be mindful of the amount of chutneys and toppings you add to the Dahi Bhalla. Use them sparingly to control the calorie intake.
5. Choose Healthier Toppings: Instead of high-calorie toppings like sev (gram flour noodles) or fried papdi, opt for healthier alternatives like chopped vegetables or fresh herbs for added flavor and crunch.
6. Control Sugar Content: If preparing homemade chutneys, use less sugar or consider using natural sweeteners like jaggery or honey to reduce the overall sugar content.
7. Increase Vegetable Content: Incorporate more vegetables like grated carrots, cucumbers, or sprouts into the Dahi Bhalla to add volume and nutrients without adding excessive calories.
8. Balancing Overall Diet: Enjoy Dahi Bhalla as part of a balanced meal, including other low-calorie and nutritious dishes to ensure a well-rounded diet.

What’s Different in the Dahi Bhalla Recipe by Livofy?

Ingredients, cooking processes, and flavor profiles vary amongst Dahi Bhalla recipes. For example, Livofy’s Dahi Bhalla dish may have the same ingredient mix as other recipes. You may also choose a different cooking method or technique to create a certain texture or flavor.

Recipes can also differ in terms of cooking time, and the quantity of ingredients necessary. Some recipes are more appropriate for amateur chefs, while others are more sophisticated and need more time and ability.

You can also experiment with different recipes to learn how to cook Dahi Bhalla recipe which is both nutritious and delicious.

FAQs

What is the cooking time for the Dahi Bhalla recipe?

It takes about 2 hours and 35 minutes to cook this easy Dahi Bhalla recipe from (soaking lentils) start to finish (frying Vadas).

Is Dahi Bhalla healthy?

Dahi Bhalla can be a healthy dish when made with nutritious ingredients. It provides protein from lentils, and probiotics from yogurt, and can be a part of a balanced diet. However, portion control and mindful choice of toppings are important for managing calorie intake.

How many calories does the Dahi Bhalla recipe have?

Dahi Bhalla is a dish made primarily from lentils (urad dal) and yogurt. It is a good source of carbohydrates, protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. The specific nutritional values can vary depending on the recipe and ingredients used, but on average, it provides around 200-300 calories.

How to make Dahi Bhalla recipe interesting?

Here’s how to make the Dahi Bhalla recipe more interesting:

1. Fusion Flavors: Add a twist to the traditional recipe by incorporating fusion flavors. For example, you can experiment with different chutneys like a spicy mango chutney or a tangy pineapple chutney.
2. Creative Toppings: Instead of traditional toppings, try adding unique and flavorful toppings like pomegranate seeds, chopped nuts, or crispy fried onions. These toppings add texture and a burst of flavor to the dish.
3. Experiment with Fillings: Consider stuffing the vadas with a surprise filling, such as a mixture of paneer (Indian cottage cheese), spices, or even a tangy chutney. This adds an element of surprise and enhances the taste.
4. Play with Spices: Experiment with different spice blends and seasonings to give your Dahi Bhalla a unique flavor profile. You can add a pinch of roasted cumin powder, black salt, or chaat masala for an extra kick.
5. Serve with Unique Accompaniments: Instead of the usual tamarind and mint chutneys, serve Dahi Bhalla with unconventional accompaniments like tangy salsa or zesty avocado dip. These unexpected pairings can make the dish more exciting. (Check out the mint chutney recipe)

Are there any side effects of eating Dahi Bhalla?

Here are some potential side effects of the Dahi Bhalla recipe:

• Allergies: Be cautious if you or anyone consuming the dish has allergies or intolerance to dairy products, as Dahi Bhalla contains yogurt. Consider using lactose-free yogurt or non-dairy alternatives for those with allergies.
• Foodborne Illness: Practice proper hygiene and food safety measures during preparation and storage to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination. Ensure that ingredients are fresh and that the dish is consumed within a reasonable time.
• Caloric Intake: Dahi Bhalla can be high in calories due to deep frying and toppings like chutneys and sev. Practice portion control and moderation to manage caloric intake and avoid excessive consumption. (Check out our weight loss blogs)
• Digestive Issues: Lentils used in Dahi Bhalla may cause digestive discomfort, bloating, or gas in some individuals. Monitor your body’s response, and if you have sensitive digestion, consume in moderation.
• Personal Considerations: Consider individual dietary needs, allergies, and health conditions when consuming Dahi Bhalla. Adjust the recipe or consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian if necessary.

How to make the Dahi Bhalla recipe beautifully assembled and garnished?