Batata Vada (Fried Potato Fritters - Mumbai Style)

 

          Batata Vada is a very popular snack all over Maharashtra. It is similar to Aloo Bonda in the South. This recipe calls for boiled and mashed potatoes, coated in chickpea batter and them deep fried. It is generally a street food, at times served in pav (bread) called Vada Pav. It can also be enjoyed as a tea time snack or as an appetizer with green chutney or tomato sauce. Tastes absolutely yummy. 

Stuffing - 

• 4-5 potatoes, boiled & mashed
• 1 tsp. ginger, grated
• 2 green chilies, chopped
• salt to taste
• 1/4 tsp. turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp. red chili powder
• 1 tsp. coriander-cumin powder
• 2 tbsp. coriander leaves, chopped
• oil to deep fry

Batter-

• 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
• salt to taste
• 1 tbsp. hot oil
• 1/4 tsp. turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp. red chili powder
• 1 tsp. coriander-cumin powder
• 1/4 tsp. baking soda
• 1 tsp. kalonji (nigella seeds)
• water as required

          To make the batter, combine all the ingredients in a bowl and make a smooth batter with the help of some water. It should be of pouring consistency. Keep aside.

          For the filling, combine all the ingredients in a bowl, except oil. and knead into a dough. Make equal sized balls out of it.

          Heat oil. Dip each ball in the batter and deep fry them few at a time till golden brown on all sides. Drain on a paper tissue and serve with any chutney or sauce.