Kanji vada is a popular Indian snack that originated in the state of Rajasthan. It consists of two main components: kanji, which is a sour fermented drink made from mustard seeds and water, and vada, which is a fried lentil fritter.
Kanji vada is a traditional North Indian snack that is popular during the summer season. It consists of two parts – the kanji and the vada.
Kanji is a sour and spicy fermented drink that is made with water, mustard seeds, salt, and various spices. It is typically made in large earthen pots and left to ferment for several days.
Vada, on the other hand, is a savory fritter that is made with ground lentils and spices. It is deep-fried until crispy and golden brown.
To make kanji vada, the vadas are soaked in the kanji for a few hours until they absorb the tangy flavor of the drink. The result is a delicious and refreshing snack that is perfect for hot summer days.
Kanji vada is not only delicious but it is also considered to have many health benefits. The probiotics in the fermented kanji are said to aid digestion, boost the immune system, and improve overall gut health.
Kanji vada is typically served as a snack or appetizer and is enjoyed by many in Rajasthan and other parts of India. It is often garnished with toppings like coriander leaves, chopped onions, and tamarind chutney to add more flavor and texture.
Health benefits of kanji vada:
- Kanji, the fermented drink used to soak the vadas, is a probiotic that contains beneficial bacteria that help to improve digestion and promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria
- Kanji vada is a low-fat, low-calorie snack that can help to reduce hunger pangs and prevent overeating, making it an ideal option for those looking to manage their weight.
- Kanji is a great source of hydration, which is important during the hot summer months when dehydration can be a concern.
- The probiotics in kanji also help to boost the immune system by enhancing the body’s ability to fight off infections and diseases.
- Kanji vada is a low-fat, low-calorie snack that can help to reduce hunger pangs and prevent overeating, making it an ideal option for those looking to manage their weight.
Ingredients for kanji vada:
Vada:
- 1 cup urad dal (split black gram)
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp coriander seeds
- 1/2 tsp fennel seeds
- 1/2 inch ginger, grated
- Salt to taste
- Oil for deep frying
For Kanji:
- 1/2 cup mustard seeds
- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- Salt to taste
For Serving:
- Chopped coriander leaves
- Chopped onion
- Tamarind chutney
Instructions for kanji vada
- To make the vada, soak the urad dal in water for 4-5 hours.
- Drain the water and grind the dal with ginger, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and salt to a smooth batter.
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
- Wet your hands and take small portions of the batter and shape them into small balls.
- Carefully drop the vada into the hot oil and fry them until they are golden brown.
- Drain the vada on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- To make the kanji, soak the whole mustard seeds in water for 2-3 days until it ferments and becomes sour.
- Mix the fermented mustard seeds with water, salt, turmeric powder, and chili powder.
- Add the fried vada to the kanji and let them soak for 4-5 hours or overnight.
- To serve, remove the vada from the kanji and place them in a serving dish.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves, chopped onions, and tamarind chutney.
- Serve and enjoy your delicious kanji vada!
Serving suggestions
- Serve the kanji vada as a snack or appetizer with some tamarind chutney, mint chutney, or ketchup on the side.
- Make it a meal by serving the kanji vada with some plain or jeera rice and a simple salad of sliced cucumber and tomato.
- For a more indulgent version, top the kanji vada with some sweet and tangy tamarind chutney, spicy green chutney, and some sev (crunchy chickpea flour noodles).
- Serve the kanji vada with some chilled buttermilk or lassi to balance out the heat and add a refreshing touch to the meal.
- You can also try experimenting with different toppings and garnishes such as grated coconut, chopped green chilies, chopped mint leaves, or even some grated cheese for a fusion twist.
Tips and variations
- To make the vada more crispy, you can add a pinch of baking soda to the batter while grinding.
- If you want to make the vada spicier, add some chopped green chilies or red chili powder to the batter.
- For a healthier version, you can bake the vada in the oven instead of deep-frying them. Brush some oil on top of the vada and bake them at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
- Instead of urad dal, you can use moong dal (split green gram) or chana dal (split chickpeas) to make the vada.
- You can also add some grated carrots or chopped spinach to the vada batter for an extra dose of nutrition.
- For a vegan version, you can skip the yogurt and use water or coconut milk to make the batter.
- If you don’t have whole mustard seeds, you can use store-bought kanji powder to make the fermented drink.
- For a more flavorful kanji, you can add some sliced carrots, beets, or radishes to the fermented drink.
- Instead of tamarind chutney, you can serve it with some sweet and sour mango pickle or spicy lime pickle.
- To make it ahead of time, you can fry the vada and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Soak them in the kanji just before serving.
FAQs
- Is kanji vada healthy?
While vada is deep-fried and can be high in calories, kanji vada can be a healthy snack or meal when made with moderation and balanced with healthy toppings and sides. The fermented drink kanji is known to have some health benefits such as aiding digestion and boosting immunity.
- Is kanji vada gluten-free?
Yes, kanji vada is gluten-free as it is made with lentils and spices and does not contain any wheat or other gluten-containing ingredients.
- How long can it be stored?
Kanji vada is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes until they turn crisp again.
- Can kanji vada be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the vada and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to a month. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and then fry them in hot oil or bake them in the oven until they turn crispy again
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