Introduction

Nachni Vadya, also known as Ragi Vada, is a savory and nutritious snack from Maharashtrian cuisine, made primarily from nachni (ragi or finger millet) flour. These crispy vadas are packed with the goodness of ragi and flavored with spices, making them a popular tea-time treat or a crunchy appetizer. Let’s explore how to make these delicious Nachni Vadya at home.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Nachni (Ragi or Finger Millet) Flour
• 1/2 cup Rice Flour
• 1/4 cup Semolina (Sooji)
• 1 small Onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup Fresh Coriander Leaves, finely chopped
• 2 Green Chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Ginger Paste
• 1/2 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon Sesame Seeds
• A pinch of Asafoetida (Hing)
• Salt to taste
• Water, as needed
• Oil, for deep frying

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mixing Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine nachni flour, rice flour, semolina, chopped onion, coriander leaves, green chilies, ginger paste, cumin seeds, sesame seeds, asafoetida, and salt.
2. Knead the Dough:
   • Gradually add water, a little at a time, and knead to form a firm yet pliable dough. The dough should hold together well.
3. Resting the Dough:
   • Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the flavors to meld together.

Step 2: Shape and Fry the Vadas

1. Heat Oil for Frying:
   • Meanwhile, heat sufficient oil in a deep frying pan or kadai over medium heat.
2. Shaping Vadas:
   • Take a small portion of the dough and roll it into a smooth ball between your palms.
   • Flatten the ball slightly to form a disc shape. Repeat with the remaining dough.
3. Frying Vadas:
   • Once the oil is hot enough (test by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface), carefully slide a few vadas into the hot oil.
   • Fry the vadas in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
   • Fry them on medium heat, turning occasionally, until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides.
4. Drain and Serve:
   • Once fried, remove the vadas using a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.

Step 3: Serving Nachni Vadya

1. Serve Hot:
   • Serve Nachni Vadya hot as a tea-time snack or as an appetizer.
   • Enjoy them plain or with a side of green chutney or tomato ketchup.

Tips for Making Perfect Nachni Vadya

• Consistency of Dough: Ensure the dough is not too sticky or too dry. Adjust the water accordingly while kneading.
• Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature throughout frying to achieve crispy vadas. Fry on medium heat for even cooking.
• Variations: You can add grated vegetables like carrots or spinach to the dough for added flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Nachni Vadya is a delightful and crunchy snack that showcases the nutritional benefits of ragi (finger millet) flour. With its blend of spices and crispy texture, these vadas are a favorite in Maharashtrian households. Whether served as a snack with tea or as an appetizer during gatherings, Nachni Vadya offers a tasty way to incorporate millets into your diet. Try this recipe and enjoy the wholesome goodness of ragi in every crispy bite!