Dahi Bhalla Recipe

Learn how to make authentic homemade Dahi Bhalla with our best easy baking recipe! This traditional Indian street food features urad dal dumplings in spiced yogurt with sweet and tangy chutneys. Master the perfect soaking technique for the fluffiest texture every time!

Difficulty:

Intermediate

Prep Time:

8 hours

Cook Time:

30 mins

Serves:

6 servings

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">250g urad dal (split black gram), soaked overnight</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp ginger, finely grated</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2-3 green chillies, finely chopped</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp cumin seeds</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">¼ tsp asafoetida (hing)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Salt to taste</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Oil for deep frying</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">750ml thick yogurt (Greek yogurt works well)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp roasted cumin powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp chaat masala</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp red chilli powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp sugar</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Salt to taste</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">100ml tamarind chutney</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">100ml mint-coriander chutney</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp fresh coriander leaves, chopped</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp pomegranate seeds (optional)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp fine sev (crispy chickpea noodles)</li></ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size:

🔥 Calories:

🥑 Fat:

🧈 Saturated Fat:

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Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Food processor or grinder</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Deep frying pan</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Slotted spoon</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Large mixing bowls</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Whisk</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Begin by thoroughly washing the urad dal 3-4 times until the water runs clear. Soak it in plenty of water overnight or for at least 6-8 hours. This extended soaking is crucial for achieving the perfect fluffy texture in your bhallas.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Drain the soaked dal completely and add it to a food processor. Grind it to a smooth paste, adding minimal water (2-3 tablespoons at most). The consistency should be thick and airy. Transfer to a large bowl and whisk vigorously for 2-3 minutes - this incorporates air which makes the bhallas light and spongy.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Add grated ginger, chopped green chilies, cumin seeds, asafoetida, and salt to the batter. Mix well until everything is incorporated. The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape but soft enough to be scooped with a spoon.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 175°C. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of batter - it should rise to the surface immediately without browning too quickly. Keep the heat medium to ensure the bhallas cook thoroughly.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Wet your hands slightly and shape small portions (about 2 tablespoons) of the batter into round dumplings. Gently slide them into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until they turn golden brown, about 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally for even cooking.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Remove the bhallas with a slotted spoon and immediately transfer them to a bowl of warm water. Let them soak for 20-30 minutes. This soaking step is essential - it makes the bhallas soft and spongy while removing excess oil.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>While the bhallas are soaking, prepare the yogurt mixture. Whisk the yogurt until smooth, then add roasted cumin powder, chaat masala, red chili powder, sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined and set aside.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>After soaking, gently squeeze the bhallas between your palms to remove excess water, being careful not to break them. The bhallas should feel spongy and light.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>To assemble, place the bhallas in a serving dish and pour the seasoned yogurt over them. The yogurt should completely cover the bhallas. Allow them to soak in the yogurt for at least 1 hour before serving - this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 10</h4>Just before serving, drizzle with tamarind chutney and mint-coriander chutney. Sprinkle with roasted cumin powder, chaat masala, fresh coriander leaves, pomegranate seeds (if using), and sev for a delightful crunch. Serve chilled for the best taste experience.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Dahi Bhalla?

Dahi Bhalla uses urad dal (split black gram), yoghurt, spices (cumin, asafoetida, chaat masala), green chillies, ginger, tamarind chutney, mint-coriander chutney, sev (crispy chickpea noodles), and optional pomegranate seeds for garnish.

How to cook Dahi Bhalla at home?

Learn how to cook Dahi Bhalla by soaking urad dal overnight, grinding it to a smooth paste, forming dumplings, and deep-frying until golden brown. After soaking in water to soften, squeeze gently and place in spiced yoghurt. Top with tangy tamarind and mint chutneys, then garnish with spices, fresh herbs and crunchy sev.

Why do you need to soak the urad dal dumplings in water after frying?

Soaking fried dumplings in warm water is an essential step that softens their texture, removes excess oil, and allows them to absorb the spiced yoghurt better. This creates the signature spongy, melt-in-mouth consistency that's crucial for authentic chaat flavour.

Can I make the lentil dumplings ahead of time for this popular Indian street food?

Yes, the bhallas (dumplings) can be prepared 1-2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. However, only assemble with yoghurt and chutneys just before serving to prevent sogginess. For best results, bring refrigerated bhallas to room temperature before final assembly.

What's the secret to getting fluffy, light dumplings instead of dense ones?

The secret lies in thorough soaking (6-8 hours minimum), minimal water during grinding, and vigorously whisking the batter to incorporate air. The batter should be thick yet fluffy. Frying at the correct temperature (175°C) ensures they cook through without absorbing excess oil.

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