RestaurantsNEW AMAYA REAL INDIAN FOODDahi Bhallae Recipe

Dahi Bhallae Recipe

Time1h 15m
Serves4

Lentil dumplings topped with chickpeas, potatoes, chutney, and yoghurt.

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Ingredients

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Lentil dumplings (Bhallas)

Tamarind & mint-coriander chutneys

Method

Lentil dumplings (Bhallas)

1

Soak and grind

Rinse the urad dal (and moong dal, if using) thoroughly until water runs clear. Soak in enough water to cover for 4–6 hours or overnight. Drain. Grind the soaked dal to a smooth, thick batter using minimal water — aim for a light, fluffy batter similar to pancake batter but thicker. Transfer to a bowl.

2

Whip batter

Beat the batter vigorously for 3–5 minutes by hand or with a whisk to introduce air; you can also use a hand blender for short pulses. The batter should be airy and hold soft peaks. Stir in chopped green chili, grated ginger, and 1 tsp salt.

3

Add raising agent

Just before frying, sprinkle 1/4 tsp baking soda (or gently fold in crushed eno fruit salt) into the batter and mix quickly but gently to retain air.

4

Fry bhallas

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat to about 350°F (175°C) or until a small drop of batter sizzles and rises. Using a spoon or wet hands, shape golf-ball-sized portions of batter and gently slide into the hot oil. Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until puffed and golden brown on all sides, about 4–6 minutes. Remove to paper towels to drain.

5

Soak bhallas

Prepare a bowl of warm water. While still warm, transfer the fried bhallas to the warm water and soak for 5–8 minutes to soften and remove excess oil. Gently squeeze each bhalla to remove excess water (do not break apart) and place on a tray lined with paper towel.

Chickpea & potato topping

6

In a bowl, combine cooked chickpeas and chopped boiled potato. Add 1/2 tsp cumin powder, 1/2 tsp chaat masala, 1/4 tsp red chili powder, 1/2 tsp salt, chopped cilantro, and 1 tbs lemon juice. Toss gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Yoghurt & soaking liquid

7

Whisk the yoghurt until smooth. If too thick for drizzling, thin with 1–2 tbs milk or water to reach a pourable consistency. Stir in 1/4 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp sugar to balance tartness.

Assembly & garnish

8

Place soaked and squeezed bhallas on a serving platter (4–6 per platter for 4 servings). Using the back of a spoon, gently press each bhalla to create a shallow cavity for toppings.

9

Spoon a portion of the chickpea-potato mixture onto each bhalla, distributing evenly.

10

Drizzle whisked yoghurt generously over each topped bhalla so they are mostly covered.

11

Spoon tamarind chutney and mint-coriander chutney in alternating lines or dots over the yoghurt to taste.

12

Sprinkle roasted cumin powder, additional chaat masala, and a pinch of red chili powder over each portion.

13

Finish with a scattering of sev, pomegranate arils (if using), and chopped cilantro for color and crunch. Serve immediately.

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