Parippu Vada (lentil fritters)

Serves 2-3

Using a food processor, grind the soaked and drained channa dal until it resembles a coarse crumb like texture (NOT a paste)

In a large bowl, add all the ingredients including the ground dal and combine. Leave this aside for 15-20 mins (to allow the moisture from all the ingrediants to blend, making it easier to form the vada patties)

To make the vadas, make a ball (slightly smaller than a golf ball) from the mixture and then flatten using the palms of your hand

Heat the oil in a deep pan until at boiling temperature

Now carefully drop the balls in the pan which should turn golden brown within 2-3 minutes (these can be fried in batches of three to four depending on the size of your pan)

Then serve immediately with a choice of your favourite sauce

These tasty little snacks can be served with a range of different dips like all the old time favourite tomato ketchup, chilli or mint sauce.