Dahi Vada
Dahi Vada is a beloved Indian snack where soft, deep-fried lentil dumplings are soaked in creamy, spiced yogurt. Made from a batter of ground urad dal (black lentils), they are typically tempered with cumin and garnished with sweet tamarind and spicy green chutneys. This dish is a staple street food and festive treat across India, especially popular during Holi.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Dahi Vada is a balanced dish providing a good mix of carbohydrates from the lentils and yogurt, along with a moderate amount of protein from the dal. A single serving typically ranges from 250-350 calories, with the yogurt offering probiotics and calcium.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbs | 32 g |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Calcium | 200 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Phosphorus | 180 mg |
| Vitamin A | 80 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.5 mcg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.2 mg |
| Magnesium | 40 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Dahi Vada is synonymous with celebration and is often served to balance the body's heat during the vibrant Holi festival. Nutritionally, the fermentation of the lentil batter before frying can enhance its digestibility and nutrient profile.
