Dahi Bhalla (Dahi Bhalle) Recipe: A Simple and Unique Guide to Making Indian Yogurt Dumplings
Dahi Bhalla, also called Dahi Bhalle or Dahi Vada, is a beloved North Indian snack where soft lentil dumplings are soaked in creamy, spiced yogurt. Topped with tangy chutneys and spices, it’s a delightful mix of textures and flavors. In this article, we’ll walk you through a simple and unique way to make Dahi Bhalla from scratch, perfect for family gatherings or festive occasions. This recipe is suitable for beginners and uses easily available ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Bhallas (dumplings):
- 1 cup split black gram (urad dal), soaked overnight
- 1-2 green chilies, chopped
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- Salt, to taste
- Oil, for deep frying
For the Dahi (yogurt):
- 2 cups fresh yogurt, whisked until smooth
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
For Toppings:
- 2 tbsp tamarind chutney
- 2 tbsp green chutney (mint-coriander)
- 1 tsp roasted cumin powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp chaat masala
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- Pomegranate seeds (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Bhallas
The bhallas or dumplings are the heart of this dish, and making them at home ensures they’re fresh and spongy.
- Step 1: Wash and soak the split black gram (urad dal) overnight. This helps soften the lentils and makes them easier to blend into a smooth batter.
- Step 2: Drain the soaked dal and transfer it to a blender. Add chopped green chilies, grated ginger, and a pinch of salt. Blend until you achieve a smooth, thick batter. You might need to add a small amount of water to aid blending, but keep it minimal, as a thicker batter makes for fluffier dumplings.
- Step 3: Transfer the batter to a bowl and whisk it vigorously for a few minutes. Whisking introduces air into the batter, making the bhallas light and fluffy when fried.
- Step 4: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Using a spoon, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown, turning occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. Once done, remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
2. Soaking the Bhallas
This step is essential to achieving the right texture, making the bhallas soft and tender.
- Step 5: Fill a large bowl with lukewarm water and add a pinch of salt. Place the fried bhallas into the water and let them soak for about 15-20 minutes. The bhallas will swell slightly as they absorb the water, becoming soft and spongy.
- Step 6: After soaking, gently press each bhalla between your palms to remove excess water. Be careful not to squish them; a gentle squeeze will do.
3. Preparing the Yogurt
The yogurt base is what brings all the flavors together. You’ll want it to be smooth and creamy, with a hint of sweetness.
- Step 7: In a mixing bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth and lump-free. Add salt to taste and a bit of sugar if you prefer a hint of sweetness. The sugar balances the tang of the yogurt and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
4. Assembling the Dahi Bhallas
Now, it’s time to bring everything together!
- Step 8: In a large serving dish, arrange the squeezed bhallas in a single layer. Pour the whisked yogurt over them, ensuring each bhalla is well-coated.
- Step 9: Drizzle tamarind and green chutneys over the yogurt-coated bhallas. These chutneys add a tangy and fresh note to the dish.
- Step 10: Sprinkle roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, and chaat masala over the top. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and pomegranate seeds, if desired, for a pop of color and flavor.
5. Serving Suggestions
Dahi Bhallas are best served chilled. You can prepare them a few hours in advance and refrigerate until serving time. This dish pairs well with other Indian street food items like papdi chaat, pani puri, or bhel puri for a complete chaat platter.
Tips for a Perfect Dahi Bhalla
- Consistency of the Batter: Ensure the bhalla batter is thick but smooth. Too much water can make the bhallas hard, so be careful while blending.
- Spices and Garnishes: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. The toppings can be customized too, adding or skipping garnishes as desired.
- Use Fresh Yogurt: Fresh yogurt has a naturally creamy texture and mild tang, making it perfect for this dish. Homemade or store-bought yogurt works well.
Final Thoughts
Dahi Bhalla is a refreshing, light dish that strikes a perfect balance between sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Its unique combination of textures—the softness of the bhallas, creaminess of the yogurt, and crunch from toppings—makes it a memorable addition to any meal or gathering. Try this easy recipe for your next get-together and let your guests enjoy the authentic taste of Indian chaat right at home!