Delicious Dahi Bhalla Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfectly Fluffy and Tangy Treats

Dahi Bhalla

Introduction

Dahi Bhalla, also known as Dahi Vada, is a popular Indian street food and snack that combines the creaminess of yogurt with the tanginess of tamarind chutney and the spiciness of various seasonings. This delightful dish is made by soaking lentil-based dumplings in seasoned yogurt and garnishing them with an array of flavorful toppings. 

Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, Dahi Bhalla never fails to tantalize taste buds with its burst of flavors and textures. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the process of making authentic Dahi Bhalla right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For Bhalla (Dumplings):

- 1 cup black gram (maash dal) 

- 1/4 cup yellow lentils (moong dal)

- 1/2 inch ginger, finely chopped

- 2 green chilies, finely chopped

- Salt to taste

- Oil for deep frying

For Yogurt Mixture:

3 cups thick yogurt

Yogurt

- 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder

- 1 teaspoon black salt

- Salt to taste

- Water as needed

For p Chutney:

- 1/2 cup tamarind pulp

- 1/4 cup jaggery or sugar

- 1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder

- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder

- Salt to taste

For Garnish:

- 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves

Chopped Coriander

- 1 tablespoon roasted cumin powder

- 1 tablespoon chaat masala

- Sev (white channas) for topping

- Fresh pomegranate seeds for garnish (optional)

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Bhalla (Dumplings)

1. Rinse the split black gram and yellow lentils thoroughly and soak them in water separately for at least 4-6 hours.

2. Drain the water from both the lentils and grind them together to form a smooth paste. To attain thick batter consistency add water as much required according to the quantity.

3. Add chopped ginger, green chilies, and salt to the batter. Mix well.

Chilies

4. Add oil in a deep pan and heat over medium flame.

5. Wet your hands with water and take a small portion of the batter. Give it a shape of flatten tikki and fry them. 

6. Fry the tikki flattened properly till it becomes light brown and crispy. Then take them out and remove the excess oil with the help of tissue or oil absorbent. Then repeat the same process with the batter left behind.

Step 2: Prepare the Yogurt Mixture

1. Whisk the thick yogurt in a bowl until smooth.

2. Add roasted cumin powder, black salt, and regular salt to the yogurt. Mix well. Adjust seasoning according to taste.

3. Add water to the yogurt mixture to achieve the desired consistency for soaking the dumplings. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Tamarind Chutney

1. In a saucepan, combine roasted sugar, chilies, salt and coriander.

2. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the jaggery or sugar melts and the chutney thickens slightly.

3. Remove from the stove and let the chutney cool at room temperature.

Step 4: Assemble the Dahi Bhalla

1. Take the fried dumplings and gently press them between your palms to remove excess oil.

2. Arrange the dumplings in a shallow dish or serving plate.

3. Pour the prepared yogurt mixture over the dumplings, ensuring they are completely soaked.

4. Drizzle the cooled tamarind chutney over the yogurt-covered dumplings.

5. Sprinkle chopped coriander leaves, roasted cumin powder, and chaat masala over the Dahi Bhalla.

6. Top with sev and fresh pomegranate seeds for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

Process and Servings

Making Dahi Bhalla is a labor of love, but the results are well worth the effort. This recipe yields approximately 20-25 medium-sized Dahi Bhalla, making it perfect for serving a small gathering or as a delightful treat for the family. Each serving typically consists of 3-4 Dahi Bhalla, depending on individual appetites. By following the step-by-step instructions outlined above, you'll be able to recreate the authentic flavors and textures of this beloved Indian street food right in your own kitchen. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, Dahi Bhalla is sure to impress with its irresistible combination of creamy yogurt, tangy chutney, and flavorful seasonings. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure that promises to tantalize your taste buds and delight your senses. Bon appétit!