Indulge guilt-free with this Heart-Healthy Paruppu Vada recipe, a modern twist on the classic South Indian snack. Traditionally deep-fried, these crispy lentil fritters are air-fried to perfection for a lighter and nutritious alternative without compromising on flavor. Packed with protein-rich chana dal, aromatic curry leaves, fiery green chilies, and the earthy sweetness of fennel seeds, these vadas are bursting with vibrant taste and texture. A touch of black pepper adds subtle heat, while fresh coriander brightens every bite. Ready in just over 30 minutes, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for an afternoon snack or a wholesome appetizer. Serve with coconut chutney or mint yogurt dip to elevate this heart-healthy treat to a delicious new level!
Rinse the chana dal under running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
Soak the chana dal in water for about 2 hours. Drain completely and set aside.
Roughly chop the onion, green chilies, ginger, and coriander leaves.
In a food processor, add the soaked chana dal, green chilies, ginger, and fennel seeds. Pulse a few times until coarsely ground. Avoid adding water, but if necessary, add a tablespoon of water at a time.
Transfer the ground mixture to a mixing bowl and add chopped onion, curry leaves, coriander leaves, salt, black pepper powder, and baking soda. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
Preheat an air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for 5 minutes.
Lightly grease your hands with water and take a small portion of the mixture, flatten it into a rounded disc, about 1/2-inch thick. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
Place enough vadas in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other.
Spray a light coat of olive oil on top of the vadas.
Air fry at 180°C (356°F) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Repeat the process for the remaining mixture.
Serve hot with coconut chutney or mint yogurt dip for a heart-healthy snack.
Calories |
998 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 15.6 g | 20% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.6 g | 8% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2748 mg | 119% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 171.5 g | 62% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 46.9 g | 168% | |
| Total Sugars | 34.5 g | ||
| Protein | 50.5 g | 101% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 222 mg | 17% | |
| Iron | 13.6 mg | 76% | |
| Potassium | 2628 mg | 56% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.