Medu Vada — South Indian Urad Dal Fritters

Let the soaked lentils drain in a colander for 10 minutes so the excess water runs off. Blend them in a food processor, adding water a little at a time, until you have a smooth, thick batter. You do not have to use all the water; the batter should fall slowly from a spoon.

Add the salt and beat the batter quickly in one direction with a wooden spoon or by hand for 8 minutes. Put a drop of batter into a glass of water: if it floats, it has trapped enough air; if it sinks, keep beating.

Heat the oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. A drop of batter should puff up immediately and rise to the surface. If the oil is too hot, the outside will set at once while the center remains raw.