Elatha Vadai (Jujube Vada): A Traditional Sweet and Nutritious Snack
Elatha Vadai, also known as Jujube Vada, is a traditional South indian snack made from jujube fruit (Indian dates). This unique vada combines natural sweetness, fiber, and antioxidants from jujube with the crunchiness of deep-fried lentils or flours, creating a healthy indulgence perfect for festivals, tea time, or a wholesome snack.
Drain soaked chana dal and grind coarsely to a thick paste without adding water.Mix Jujube Pulp:
In a mixing bowl, combine jujube pulp, coarsely ground chana dal, rice flour, jaggery (if using), cardamom powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well into a smooth, thick batter.Shape the Vadas:
Grease your hands with a little oil. Take small portions of the batter and shape them into round, flat discs.Fry the Vadas:
Heat oil in a deep pan on medium flame. Fry the vadas in batches until golden brown and crisp on both sides. Remove and drain excess oil using kitchen paper.Serve and Enjoy:
Elatha Vadai is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature, with tea or coffee.
Jujube fruit is loaded with iron, calcium, and potassium, which help improve hemoglobin and bone health.2. Boosts Immunity:
Jujube is packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, helping strengthen immunity and fight infections.3. Promotes Digestion:
The fiber in jujube and chana dal aids smooth digestion and prevents constipation.4. Natural Energy Snack:
Elatha Vadai provides a healthy source of energy, making it an ideal snack for mid-morning or evening hunger pangs.5. heart and Brain Health:
Antioxidants and minerals in jujube help improve heart health and cognitive function over time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Jujube (Elatha) pulp – 1 cup, deseeded and mashedChana dal (Bengal gram) – ¼ cup, soaked 2 hoursRice flour – 2 tbspJaggery (optional) – 1 tbsp, gratedCardamom powder – ½ tspSalt – a pinchCoconut oil or sesame oil – for deep fryingStep-by-Step Preparation
Prepare the Dal Paste:Drain soaked chana dal and grind coarsely to a thick paste without adding water.Mix Jujube Pulp:
In a mixing bowl, combine jujube pulp, coarsely ground chana dal, rice flour, jaggery (if using), cardamom powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well into a smooth, thick batter.Shape the Vadas:
Grease your hands with a little oil. Take small portions of the batter and shape them into round, flat discs.Fry the Vadas:
Heat oil in a deep pan on medium flame. Fry the vadas in batches until golden brown and crisp on both sides. Remove and drain excess oil using kitchen paper.Serve and Enjoy:
Elatha Vadai is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature, with tea or coffee.
Health Benefits of Elatha Vadai
1. Rich in iron and Minerals:Jujube fruit is loaded with iron, calcium, and potassium, which help improve hemoglobin and bone health.2. Boosts Immunity:
Jujube is packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, helping strengthen immunity and fight infections.3. Promotes Digestion:
The fiber in jujube and chana dal aids smooth digestion and prevents constipation.4. Natural Energy Snack:
Elatha Vadai provides a healthy source of energy, making it an ideal snack for mid-morning or evening hunger pangs.5. heart and Brain Health:
Antioxidants and minerals in jujube help improve heart health and cognitive function over time.