Vada (Indian lentil fritters)

Instructions

1. Soak the lentils for 4 hours in water. Drain them, then blend with a little water to a thick, smooth paste, without making it runny.
2. Add the finely sliced onion, ginger, chopped chillies, cumin, chopped curry leaves, coriander, salt and bicarbonate of soda. Mix well.
3. Leave the batter to rest for 15 minutes so it becomes slightly airy.
4. Heat the oil to 170 °C in a deep fryer or a large saucepan.
5. Wet your hands, take a portion of batter, shape it into a patty or a ring with a hole in the middle and gently slide it into the oil.
6. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Drain on kitchen paper and serve with the chutneys.