Sambar Vada Recipe | How to Make Crispy Medu Vada with Sambar at Home

 Sambar Vada Recipe | How to Make Crispy Medu Vada with Hot Sambar

Sambar Vada (also known as Sambhar Wada) is a beloved South Indian dish that combines crispy fried medu vadas soaked in flavorful, spicy sambar. This comforting combo is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a hearty snack. Let's learn how to make the perfect sambar vada at home — crispy on the outside, soft inside, and full of authentic flavors!



Why You’ll Love This Sambar Vada Recipe

  • ✅ Authentic South Indian taste

  • ✅ Crispy and fluffy medu vadas

  • ✅ Flavorful and aromatic sambar

  • ✅ Great for breakfast, brunch, or festive occasions


Ingredients for Sambar Vada

For Medu Vada:

  • 1 cup urad dal (split black gram)

  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper (crushed)

  • 1–2 green chilies (finely chopped)

  • 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)

  • 2 tablespoons curry leaves (chopped)

  • Salt to taste

  • Oil for deep frying

For Sambar:

  • ½ cup toor dal (split pigeon peas)

  • 1 small onion (sliced)

  • 1 small tomato (chopped)

  • ½ cup assorted vegetables (carrot, drumstick, pumpkin)

  • 1–2 green chilies (slit)

  • 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp

  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

  • 1 sprig curry leaves

  • 2 tablespoons sambar powder

  • ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder

  • 2 tablespoons oil

  • Salt to taste

  • Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)


Step-by-Step: How to Make Sambar Vada

1️⃣ Prepare the Vada Batter

  • Rinse and soak urad dal for 4–5 hours.

  • Drain and grind into a thick, fluffy batter using minimal water.

  • Add cumin seeds, crushed black pepper, green chilies, ginger, curry leaves, and salt. Mix well.

2️⃣ Fry the Medu Vadas

  • Heat oil in a deep pan.

  • Wet your hands, take a small portion of the batter, and shape into a doughnut (or use a spoon).

  • Carefully slide into hot oil and fry until golden and crispy on medium flame.

  • Drain on paper towels.

3️⃣ Cook the Sambar

  • Pressure cook toor dal with turmeric until soft and mushy. Mash well.

  • In a pot, heat oil. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and curry leaves.

  • Add onions, green chilies, and saute until translucent.

  • Add chopped vegetables and cook for 5 minutes.

  • Add chopped tomatoes, sambar powder, salt, and tamarind pulp. Mix well.

  • Add the cooked dal and enough water to adjust the consistency.

  • Simmer for 10–15 minutes. Garnish with coriander leaves.

4️⃣ Assemble Sambar Vada

  • Soak hot medu vadas briefly in warm water, then squeeze gently (optional for softer vadas).

  • Place vadas in a serving bowl.

  • Pour hot sambar generously over them.

  • Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot!


Tips for Perfect Sambar Vada

  • Always grind the dal batter thick and fluffy for light vadas.

  • Use cold water while grinding to prevent batter from heating up.

  • Wet hands help to shape the vadas easily.

  • Fresh homemade sambar enhances the overall flavor — use lots of veggies for a nutritious touch.

  • If you want soft vadas soaked in sambar, soak them in hot water before assembling.


Serving Suggestions

  • Serve sambar vada with a side of coconut chutney or mint chutney.

  • Add a dollop of ghee on top of sambar for extra richness.

  • Perfect with a cup of filter coffee for an authentic South Indian experience.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make medu vadas in advance?

Yes, you can fry them and store them. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results before soaking in sambar.

How to make Sambar less spicy?

Reduce the quantity of green chilies and sambar powder, and balance with a little extra tamarind.

Can I make vadas without deep frying?

For a healthier version, you can bake or air-fry the vadas, but traditional medu vadas are deep-fried for authentic taste.


Conclusion

Sambar Vada is the ultimate comfort food that combines crispy vadas with spicy, tangy sambar. With this easy step-by-step recipe, you can enjoy restaurant-style sambar vada at home anytime!

💬 Tried this recipe? Leave a comment below or tag your delicious sambar vada creations on social media. Happy cooking! 🍛✨



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