If you are from Kottayam, you might be familiar with Cater's beef vada. Cater bakers in Kottayam has been serving mouthwatering snacks and sweet treats for the people of Kottayam since 1986. Their beef parippuvada is one of the most sought after for it's unique blend and novel concept.

Beef vada is a spicy, crunchy, and flavourful treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea. This delightful fritter combines hearty minced beef with wholesome dal. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, each bite offers a harmonious blend of savoury meat and nutty lentils, accented by hints of aromatic ginger, garlic, and fresh coriander. Here is how to make it at home.

Ingredients
1 cup chana dal (split chickpeas), soaked for 2 hours
250g minced beef
1 large onion, finely chopped
2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
4-5 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp fennel seeds
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp red chilli powder (adjust to taste)
Salt to taste
Oil for frying

Preparation
Drain the soaked chana dal and grind it coarsely in a food processor without adding water
Set it aside
In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced beef, coarsely ground chana dal, chopped onion, green chillies, grated ginger, minced garlic, coriander leaves, mint leaves, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and salt
Mix everything well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed
Take a small portion of the mixture and shape it into a flat, round patty (vada)
Repeat with the remaining mixture
Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the shaped vadas into the oil, a few at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan
Fry the vadas until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side
Remove the vadas from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil
Serve the beef parippu vadas hot with coconut chutney, mint chutney, or any dip of your choice.

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