- Begin by heating a small amount of oil in a pan. Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and cumin seeds, allowing them to crackle and pop.
- Add chopped onions, green chilies, and ginger-garlic paste. Sauté the mixture until the onions turn a golden brown color.
- Stir in turmeric powder, and then mix in the boiled and mashed potatoes. Ensure all ingredients are combined well.
- Season the mixture with salt to taste, and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
2. Shaping the Vada:
- After the filling has cooled, divide it into small portions and roll each into a smooth ball (about the size of a golf ball). Set the balls aside for later.
3. Making the Batter:
- In a bowl, combine besan (chickpea flour), turmeric powder, salt, and water to form a smooth batter. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the potato balls evenly.
4. Frying the Vada:
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
- Take each potato ball and dip it in the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Carefully lower the battered ball into the hot oil.
- Fry the vada until it is golden brown and crispy on the outside. Once done, remove the vada from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Assembling the Vada Pav:
- Slice the pav (bread rolls) in half horizontally, leaving one side attached. Lightly toast the inner sides of the pav in a pan.
- Spread your preferred chutney on the inside of the pav. Place the crispy vada inside and press it gently to secure it. Serve the vada pav with extra chutney or fried green chilies for an added touch of flavor.
A Few Tips for Lykkers:
- The key to the perfect Vada Pav is in the crispiness of the batter and the spiciness of the filling, so don’t skip on the seasoning.
- You can also add a pinch of hing (asafoetida) to the oil for a unique flavor.
- If you'd like a vegan version, simply skip the butter while toasting the pav and use vegan-friendly ingredients.
The Vada Pav is a perfect blend of textures and flavors that will have anyone coming back for more. Whether it's a snack for a busy day or a treat for guests, this recipe is sure to bring the taste of Mumbai right to your home. So, lykkers, gather your ingredients and enjoy making this crispy, spicy delight. Let’s get cooking and share the joy with friends and family!
Vada Pav Recipe | Vada Pav Sukha Chutney | वड़ा पाव | Chef Sanjyot Keer