Introduction: Indulge in the delightful flavors of South India with our Millet Sambar Vada recipe. This unique twist on the classic vada incorporates nutritious millets, creating a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior that pairs perfectly with tangy sambar. Whether you’re craving a snack or planning a festive meal, these savory vadas are sure to be a hit. Join us as we explore the simple steps to create this irresistible dish that’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

For Millet Vada:

• 1 cup mixed millet flour (any combination of foxtail millet, little millet, pearl millet, etc.)
• 1/2 cup urad dal (black gram lentils), soaked for 4-6 hours
• 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped ginger
• A handful of chopped fresh coriander leaves
• Salt, to taste
• Oil, for deep-frying

For Sambar:

• 1 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas), cooked until soft
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, potatoes, drumsticks, etc.), chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon sambar powder
• A few curry leaves
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Millet Vada Batter:
   • Rinse the soaked urad dal under running water and drain well.
   • In a blender or food processor, grind the urad dal into a smooth paste without adding water.
   • Transfer the ground dal to a mixing bowl.
   • Add mixed millet flour, finely chopped green chilies, chopped ginger, chopped coriander leaves, and salt to the bowl.
   • Mix well to combine all the ingredients and form a thick batter. Set aside.
2. Shape and Fry the Vadas:
   • Heat oil in a deep frying pan or kadhai over medium heat.
   • Take a small portion of the vada batter and shape it into a small round ball.
   • Flatten the ball slightly to form a vada shape.
   • Carefully slide the shaped vada into the hot oil.
   • Fry the vadas in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides.
   • Remove the fried vadas using a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on a paper towel. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Sambar:
   • In a separate pot, heat oil over medium heat.
   • Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
   • Add cumin seeds, slit green chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for a minute.
   • Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
   • Add finely chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and mushy.
   • Add chopped mixed vegetables and sauté for a few minutes.
   • Pour in the cooked toor dal along with turmeric powder, sambar powder, tamarind pulp, and salt to taste.
   • Add water as needed to adjust the consistency of the sambar.
   • Bring the sambar to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Serve the Millet Sambar Vada:
   • Once the sambar is ready, transfer it to a serving bowl.
   • Arrange the crispy millet vadas on a serving plate.
   • Garnish the sambar with fresh coriander leaves.
   • Serve the hot and flavorful Millet Sambar Vada with sambar for dipping.

Variations:

• You can add grated coconut, finely chopped onions, or curry leaves to the vada batter for extra flavor.
• Customize the sambar by adding your favorite vegetables like brinjal, pumpkin, or okra.

Nutritional Information: Millet Sambar Vada is a nutritious and satisfying dish that’s rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Millets provide complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, while lentils offer plant-based protein and iron. This dish is also low in saturated fat and cholesterol, making it a healthy choice for all ages.

Conclusion: Millet Sambar Vada is a delightful combination of crispy vadas and tangy sambar that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. With its wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors, this dish is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to festive celebrations. Try making it at home and enjoy the irresistible goodness of this South Indian delicacy.