Dill leaves, also known as shepu in some regions, are a delightful herb that brings a unique flavor to a variety of dishes. One such dish that stands out in its simplicity and taste is Shepuchi Vadi. This traditional Indian snack is not just delicious but also a healthy treat. In this article, we will dive into the world of Shepuchi Vadi, exploring its preparation and the delightful journey of savoring this scrumptious snack.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Shepuchi Vadi
Before we embark on making this delectable treat, let’s gather our ingredients:
3 Cups Dill Leaves: Fresh dill leaves are the heart and soul of Shepuchi Vadi. Make sure to wash them thoroughly and squeeze out excess water.
5-6 Green Chilies: Green chilies provide the much-needed heat to balance the dish’s flavors.
5-6 Garlic Cloves: Garlic adds a pungent, savory touch to the snack.
Some Coriander Leaves: Fresh coriander leaves contribute a vibrant, herbal note.
Pinch of Salt: Salt is the universal flavor enhancer, adding savory taste to the mixture.
1 & 1/2 Cup Gram Flour (Besan): Besan serves as the binding agent and gives structure to the Shepuchi Vadi.
Salt (as per taste): Additional salt is used to season the besan mixture.
1/4 tsp Turmeric Powder: Turmeric not only lends a beautiful yellow hue but also provides an earthy flavor.
1/2 tsp Tamarind Paste: Tamarind paste adds a tangy dimension to the snack.
Water (as required): Water is essential to create the batter. The quantity may vary slightly based on the consistency.
Some Oil: Oil is used for greasing the plate and later for tempering.
1 tsp Cumin-Mustard Seeds: This tempering provides a flavorful finish to the Shepuchi Vadi.
Some Curry Leaves: Curry leaves impart an aromatic essence to the dish.
Crafting Shepuchi Vadi
Now, let’s get our hands dirty in the kitchen and create this delightful snack:
Prepare the Dill Leaves Mixture:
Wash the dill leaves thoroughly, and after draining excess water, finely chop them.
Prepare the Spicy Paste:
Pound or blend the green chilies, garlic cloves, and coriander leaves with a pinch of salt to create a spicy paste.
Combine the ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, add the prepared green chili paste, 1 & 1/2 cups of gram flour, salt (as per taste), turmeric powder, and tamarind paste.
Mix these ingredients well, and add water gradually to form a smooth, thick batter. The texture should be akin to that of pancake batter.
Steam the Mixture:
Apply some oil to a plate and pour the shepu batter onto it. Spread the mixture evenly.
Steam the mixture for 12-15 minutes or until it’s cooked. You can use a steamer or a pressure cooker without the pressure for this step.
Cool and Cut:
Allow the steamed Shepuchi Vadi to cool down a bit. Then, cut it evenly into bite-sized squares or diamonds.
Temper the Vadi:
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan, and add cumin-mustard seeds and curry leaves.
Once the seeds start to splutter and the curry leaves turn crispy, add the Shepuchi Vadi squares.
Toss and enjoy:
Gently toss the Vadi until they take on a slight golden-brown color. This step imparts a final burst of flavor.
A Healthy and Flavorful Delight
Shepuchi Vadi isn’t just a tasty snack; it’s also a healthy one. Dill leaves are rich in vitamins and minerals, making this snack a nutritious choice. It’s also gluten-free, perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
Shepuchi Vadi, with its delightful combination of dill leaves and besan, is a treat for the senses. Whether you serve it as a snack at tea time or as an appetizer at gatherings, this dish is sure to impress. Try your hand at making this unique and flavorful snack, and share it with your loved ones. Enjoy the goodness of Shepuchi Vadi, a healthy and scrumptious delight from Indian cuisine.