Navratri Vrat – Batata Vada

Batata Vada is a popular Indian snack, often enjoyed during the Navratri festival, which is a Hindu festival celebrated in India and Nepal. During Navratri, many people observe a fast, or “vrat,” and eat foods that are free from grains, lentils, and onions. Batata Vada is a good option as it is made with potatoes, which are allowed during the fast.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups boiled and mashed potatoes
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, coarsely ground
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
• 1 tsp green chili paste
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• Salt, to taste
• 1 cup singhare ka atta (water chestnut flour)
• Oil, for deep frying

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, peanuts, coriander leaves, green chili paste, ginger paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and knead to form a dough.
2. Divide the dough into small balls.
3. Flatten each ball to make a patty.
4. In a shallow dish, spread the singhare ka atta.
5. Dip the patties into the singhare ka atta, coating it evenly.
6. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
7. Once the oil is hot, add the patties and fry them for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
8. Drain the excess oil by placing the vadas on a paper towel.
9. Serve the Batata Vada hot with chutney or yogurt

Note: You can also add finely chopped green chilies or coriander leaves to the dough for added flavor. Some variations of the recipe also call for adding a pinch of baking soda for a crispy texture.