Gluten-Free Masala Vada

Crispy, golden, and loaded with robust Indian flavors, Gluten-Free Masala Vada is the ultimate savory snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with nutrient-rich chana dal (split chickpeas) and infused with aromatic spices like cumin, fennel, and asafoetida, this traditional South Indian delicacy is naturally gluten-free and completely irresistible. Finely chopped curry leaves, ginger, green chilies, and fresh coriander elevate the taste, while a chunky texture adds satisfying crunch to every bite. These fritters are deep-fried to perfection, making them a crowd-pleasing appetizer or teatime treat. Pair them with tangy chutneys or enjoy them on their own for a burst of authentic flavor. With minimal prep and just 30 minutes of cooking time, Gluten-Free Masala Vada is as quick to make as it is delicious!

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Chana dal (split chickpeas)
• 1 medium (finely chopped) Onion
• 2 small (finely chopped) Green chilies
• 1 inch piece (finely chopped) Ginger
• 10 leaves (chopped) Curry leaves
• 1 teaspoon Fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 0.5 teaspoon Asafoetida
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 cups (for frying) Oil
• 2 tablespoons (chopped) Fresh coriander

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the chana dal thoroughly under running water and soak it in 2 cups of water for at least 2 hours.

Step 2

Drain the soaked chana dal thoroughly and reserve 2 tablespoons of it for texture. Add the rest to a blender along with fennel seeds, cumin seeds, and asafoetida. Blend to a coarse paste without adding any water. You want it chunky, not smooth.

Step 3

Transfer the blended mixture to a mixing bowl. Add the reserved whole chana dal, finely chopped onion, green chilies, ginger, curry leaves, fresh coriander, and salt to the mixture. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.

Step 4

Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.

Step 5

While the oil is heating, divide the mixture into 12 equal portions. Take one portion and flatten it lightly in your palms to form a round disc, around half an inch thick. Repeat with the remaining mixture.

Step 6

Once the oil is hot (drop a small piece of the mixture into the oil, and if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready), gently slide 4-5 discs into the oil. Do not overcrowd the pan.

Step 7

Fry on medium heat until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Step 8

Repeat the frying process with the remaining vadas.

Step 9

Serve hot with your favorite chutney or sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	857.3 grams (857.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4801

Total Fat 461.20g	591%
Saturated Fat 30.50g	153%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2430mg	106%
Total Carbohydrate 145.80g	53%
Dietary Fiber 38.80g	139%
Total Sugars 30.50g
Protein 42.00g	84%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 240mg	18%
Iron 14mg	76%
Potassium 2295mg	49%

*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: 84.7%

Protein: 3.4%

Carbs: 11.9%