Paleo Paruppu Vada

Savor the irresistible crunch of Paleo Paruppu Vada, a healthy twist on the classic South Indian snack! This grain-free recipe combines the rich, nutty flavor of yellow split lentils (chana dal) with the natural sweetness of butternut squash, creating a unique and satisfying base. Infused with aromatic curry leaves, fennel seeds, and a hint of green chili heat, these golden fritters are bursting with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Perfectly crisped in coconut oil, they maintain their paleo-friendly essence while delivering that traditional deep-fried comfort. Easy to prepare and packed with protein, these vadas are a delightful snack or appetizer, best served warm with your favorite chutney or dip. Perfect for those looking to enjoy authentic South Indian flavors while sticking to a paleo lifestyle!

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Yellow Split Lentils (Chana Dal)
• 1 cup Butternut Squash, diced
• 0.5 cup Onion, finely chopped
• 10 leaves Fresh Curry Leaves
• 1 Green Chili, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon Fennel Seeds
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper, ground
• 0.5 cup Coconut Oil
• 2 tablespoons Coriander Leaves, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the chana dal thoroughly in water and then soak it in a bowl with enough water to cover for 2 hours.

Step 2

Drain the soaked chana dal and transfer half of it to a food processor. Add the diced butternut squash.

Step 3

Pulse the mixture just until it forms a coarse paste. Avoid overprocessing as some texture is preferred.

Step 4

In a large bowl, combine the remaining chana dal, the processed lentil-squash mixture, chopped onion, curry leaves, green chili, grated ginger, fennel seeds, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Step 5

Add chopped coriander leaves to the mixture. Form small patties or vadas using your hands—about 2 inches in diameter.

Step 6

Heat the coconut oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.

Step 7

Once the oil is hot, gently slide the vadas into the pan. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.

Step 8

Fry the vadas for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crisp.

Step 9

Remove the fried vadas from the oil and drain them on a paper towel to remove excess oil.

Step 10

Serve the Paleo Paruppu Vada warm with a side of chutney or dip of your choice.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(675.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1873.4

Total Fat 117.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 93.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.9g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1257.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 168.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 30.0g	0%
Total Sugars 13.9g
Protein 55.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 321.8mg	0%
Iron 12.5mg	0%
Potassium 2502.4mg	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: 54.1%

Protein: 11.3%

Carbs: 34.6%