Masala Vada & Masala Chai

Masala Vada:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chana dal (split chickpeas)
• 2-3 dried red chilies
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• Salt to taste
• Oil for deep frying

Cooking Steps:

Step 1: Soak chana dal in water for 2-3 hours. Drain well.

Step 2: In a blender, grind chana dal, dried red chilies, and cumin seeds coarsely without adding water.

Step 3: Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Add grated ginger, chopped onion, chopped cilantro, and salt. Mix well.

Step 4: Heat oil for deep frying. Shape the mixture into small patties and fry until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Remove from oil and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Masala Chai:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water
• 2 cups milk
• 4 teaspoons loose tea leaves or 4 tea bags
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 4-5 green cardamom pods, crushed
• 4-5 cloves
• 1-2 cinnamon sticks
• Sugar to taste

Cooking Steps:

Step 1: In a saucepan, combine water, milk, grated ginger, crushed cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon sticks.

Step 2: Bring the mixture to a boil, then add tea leaves or tea bags.

Step 3: Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.

Step 4: Add sugar to taste and strain the chai into cups.

Serve the crispy masala vadas with a steaming cup of masala chai for a delightful Indian snack experience that balances spice and warmth. Enjoy!