Discover how to make Akyaw, crispy fried lentil fritters that are perfect as a snack or appetizer. This easy-to-follow recipe features seasoned lentil batter fried to golden perfection. Enjoy a crunchy, flavorful treat that's sure to impress your guests. Ideal for any occasion, these lentil fritters are a delightful addition to your recipe collection. 

Ingredients:

- 1 cup yellow lentils (masoor dal)

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)

- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder

- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala

- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

- 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped

- Salt to taste

- Oil for frying

Instructions:

Prepare the Lentils: Rinse the lentils thoroughly and soak them in water for about 4 hours or overnight. Drain the lentils and pat them dry with a kitchen towel.

Make the Batter: In a food processor, blend the soaked lentils until you get a smooth paste. Transfer to a mixing bowl. 

Mix Ingredients: Add the finely chopped onions, green chilies, ginger-garlic paste, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, baking soda, coriander leaves, and salt to the lentil paste. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Heat Oil: In a deep pan or skillet, heat enough oil for frying over medium heat.

Fry the Fritters: Drop spoonfuls of the lentil mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon. Fry in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each fritter for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Drain and Serve: Remove the fritters from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or sauce.

Enjoy your Akyaw with a side of yogurt or a tangy tamarind chutney for an extra burst of flavor!

Nutritional Values

Yellow Lentils (Masoor Dal)

   - Calories: 116

   - Carbohydrates: 20 grams

   - Protein: 9 grams

   - Fat: 0.4 grams

   - Fiber: 8 grams

Benefits:

   - High in protein, making it a good meat alternative.

   - Rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes heart health.

Onion

   - Calories: 40

   - Carbohydrates: 9 grams

   - Protein: 1 gram

   - Fat: 0.1 grams

   - Fiber: 1.7 grams

Benefits:

   - Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

   - Supports heart health and helps boost the immune system.

Green Chilies

   - Calories: 40

   - Carbohydrates: 9 grams

   - Protein: 2 grams

   - Fat: 0.4 grams

   - Vitamin C: 144% of the Daily Value (DV)

Benefits:

   - Rich in Vitamin C and capsaicin, which boosts metabolism and may reduce pain and inflammation.

   - Adds heat and flavor to dishes.

Ginger-Garlic Paste

   - Calories: 80

   - Carbohydrates: 20 grams

   - Protein: 2 grams

   - Fat: 0.6 grams

   - Fiber: 2 grams

Benefits:

   - Combines the benefits of ginger and garlic, including anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.

   - Adds flavor and aroma to dishes.

Cumin Seeds

   - Calories: 375

   - Carbohydrates: 44 grams

   - Protein: 18 grams

   - Fat: 20 grams

   - Fiber: 11 grams

Benefits:

   - Contains antioxidants and essential oils that aid digestion.

   - May help improve metabolism and boost immune function.

Turmeric Powder

   - Calories: 354

   - Carbohydrates: 65 grams

   - Protein: 8 grams

   - Fat: 10 grams

   - Fiber: 22 grams

Benefits:

   - Contains curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

   - May help improve brain function and lower the risk of heart disease.

Red Chili Powder

   - Calories: 282

   - Carbohydrates: 56 grams

   - Protein: 12 grams

   - Fat: 13 grams

   - Fiber: 26 grams

Benefits:

   - Contains capsaicin, which can boost metabolism and reduce appetite.

   - Adds heat and flavor to dishes.

Garam Masala

   - Calories: 380

   - Carbohydrates: 50 grams

   - Protein: 9 grams

   - Fat: 14 grams

   - Fiber: 25 grams

Benefits:

   - A blend of spices that adds depth and complexity to dishes.

   - Contains various spices with individual health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.

Baking Soda

   - Calories: 0

   - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

   - Protein: 0 grams

   - Fat: 0 grams

   - Sodium: 1,258 mg

Benefits:

   - Used as a leavening agent in cooking.

   - Helps improve the texture of certain recipes.

Fresh Coriander Leaves

   - Calories: 23

   - Carbohydrates: 3 grams

   - Protein: 2 grams

   - Fat: 0.5 grams

   - Fiber: 2 grams

   - Vitamin C: 27% of the Daily Value (DV)

Benefits:

   - Contains antioxidants and vitamins A and C.

   - Adds a fresh flavor and color to dishes.

Salt

   - Calories: 0

   - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

   - Protein: 0 grams

   - Fat: 0 grams

   - Sodium: 38,758 mg

Benefits:

   - Enhances flavor. Use in moderation to avoid excessive sodium intake.

Oil for Frying

   - Calories: 884

   - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

   - Protein: 0 grams

   - Fat: 100 grams

   - Saturated Fat: 14 grams

Benefits:

   - Provides essential fatty acids and vitamin E.

   - Used for cooking and enhancing flavor.