Thayir Vadai (Curd Vada) recipe with tips and health benefits

Kokila Chokkanathan
Thayir Vadai Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup urad dal (split black gram)
  • ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1–2 green chilies, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp ginger, grated
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
  • 2–3 cups plain curd (yogurt)
  • Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
  • Oil for deep frying
Optional for Garnish:

  • Grated coconut
  • Curry leaves
Instructions:

Soak Dal: Wash and soak urad dal in water for 4–5 hours or overnight. Drain well.

Grind Batter: Grind the soaked dal into a smooth, fluffy batter without adding too much water. Add salt, green chilies, ginger, cumin seeds, and asafoetida. Mix well.

Shape Vadas: Wet your hands and shape small round vadas or doughnut-shaped vadas (medu vadas).

Fry Vadas: Heat oil in a deep frying pan. Fry vadas on medium heat until golden brown and crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels. Allow them to cool slightly.

Prepare Thayir Vadai: In a large bowl, whisk curd until smooth. Add a little salt if needed. Dip each vada in curd and let it soak for 5–10 minutes.

Garnish: Sprinkle chopped coriander leaves, grated coconut, and optionally curry leaves over the curd-coated vadas. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips for Best Results:

  • Use fresh, thick curd for better flavor and consistency.
  • Ensure vadas are crisp and cool slightly before soaking in curd; otherwise, they may become mushy.
  • Tempering can be added to curd with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies for enhanced flavor.
  • Soak vadas for 5–10 minutes; soaking too long can make them overly soft.
  • Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Health Benefits of Thayir Vadai

Thayir vadai combines the goodness of urad dal and curd, offering several health benefits:

Probiotics: Yogurt contains beneficial bacteria that aid digestion and improve gut health.

Protein-Rich: urad dal and curd provide plant-based protein for muscle repair and growth.

Bone Health: Curd is rich in calcium, which strengthens bones and teeth.

Digestive Aid: Fermented dal and curd improve digestion and prevent constipation.

Heart Health: Low in saturated fats (if fried moderately) and rich in fiber, supporting cardiovascular wellness.

Weight Management: protein and probiotics promote satiety, helping control appetite.

Immunity Boost: Nutrients from dal and curd enhance overall immune function.

Conclusion:
Thayir vadai is a classic South indian snack that is soft, tangy, and mildly spiced. Perfect for festivals, breakfast, or as a cooling side dish, it combines nutrition with taste, promoting digestion, protein intake, and overall health.

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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