Low Fat Masala Vada

Delight in the guilt-free indulgence of Low Fat Masala Vada, a healthier spin on the traditional South Indian snack. Packed with protein-rich chana dal, aromatic spices like fennel and cumin, and the earthy goodness of curry leaves and coriander, this oven-baked recipe delivers all the crunch and flavor without the excess oil. By skipping deep-frying and using a light oil spray instead, these vadas strike the perfect balance between wholesome and delicious. Ready in under an hour, they make an excellent snack or appetizer, especially when paired with tangy mint chutney or classic tomato ketchup. Perfect for health-conscious foodies craving a crispy, savory treat!

Nutriscore Rating: 85/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Chana dal (split chickpeas)
• 1 medium Onion
• 2 small Green chilies
• 1 inch piece Ginger
• 2 cloves Garlic
• 10 leaves Curry leaves
• 0.5 cup Coriander leaves
• 1 teaspoon Fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 2 tablespoons Rice flour
• 0.25 teaspoon Baking soda
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0 Oil spray

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the chana dal under running water until the water runs clear. Soak it in 2 cups of water for at least 4 hours or overnight for better results.

Step 2

Drain the soaked chana dal completely and transfer to a blender or food processor. Pulse a few times to coarsely grind the dal. Avoid making it into a fine paste; ensure some whole pieces of dal remain for a good texture.

Step 3

Finely chop the onion, green chilies, ginger, garlic, curry leaves, and coriander leaves.

Step 4

In a mixing bowl, combine the coarsely ground chana dal with the chopped vegetables, fennel seeds, cumin seeds, rice flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix well until everything is well incorporated.

Step 5

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 6

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and lightly coat with an oil spray.

Step 7

Divide the mixture into small, lemon-sized portions, gently flattening each into a disc shape about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 8

Place the shaped vadas on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the top of each vada with oil spray to help them crisp up.

Step 9

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown, flipping them halfway through the baking process.

Step 10

Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with mint chutney or tomato ketchup.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(430.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	923.8

Total Fat 14.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 1.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1564.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 162.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 39.2g	0%
Total Sugars 30.5g
Protein 43.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 241.8mg	0%
Iron 13.3mg	0%
Potassium 2321.2mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 13.4%

Protein: 18.4%

Carbs: 68.2%