What is Suralichi Vadi?
Also known as Surali Chi Vadi or Surali Vadi, this classic Maharashtrian recipe is made by cooking a smooth batter of gram flour and yoghurt until thick. The cooked mixture is then spread into a thin layer, cooled, cut into strips and carefully rolled into delicate spirals.
The finished rolls are topped with a fragrant tempering and garnished with grated coconut and chopped coriander, giving the dish its signature aroma and fresh taste.
Its biggest highlight is its soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture. The yoghurt lends a mild tang, while the tempering adds crunch and depth of flavour.
Ingredients
For the batter:
1 cup gram flour (besan)
1 cup plain yogurt
2 cups water
Salt to taste
A pinch of turmeric
1–2 finely chopped green chillies
1 tsp grated ginger
1 tsp lemon juice
Optional: A small amount of sugar for a sweet-tangy balance
For the tempering:
1 tsp oil
1/2 tsp mustard seeds
1/2 tsp cumin seeds
A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
A few curry leaves
1–2 slit green chillies
For garnish: Freshly grated coconut Chopped coriander leaves
How To Make Suralichi Vadi
Step 1: Prepare A Smooth Batter
Whisk together the gram flour, yogurt and water until completely smooth. Make sure there are no lumps, as they can affect the texture of the vadi. Stir in the salt, turmeric, ginger and green chillies.
Step 2: Cook The Mixture
Transfer the batter to a heavy-bottomed pan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously. This prevents the mixture from sticking and helps it thicken evenly.
Once it reaches a spreadable consistency, remove it from the heat and quickly mix in the lemon juice. If you like a hint of sweetness, add a little sugar at this stage.
Step 3: Spread It Thin
Immediately pour the hot mixture onto a greased steel plate, marble slab or another smooth surface.
Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread it into a very thin, even layer. Work quickly, as the mixture begins to set as it cools.
Allow it to cool for a few minutes until firm.
Step 4: Roll The Vadi
Cut the set layer into long strips using a knife, then gently roll each strip into neat spirals.
Your Suralichi Vadi is now ready for the final touch.
Step 5: Prepare The Tempering
Heat oil in a small pan and add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Once they begin to crackle, add asafoetida, curry leaves and green chillies.
Once it reaches a spreadable consistency, remove it from the heat and quickly mix in the lemon juice. If you like a hint of sweetness, add a little sugar at this stage.
Step 3: Spread It Thin
Immediately pour the hot mixture onto a greased steel plate, marble slab or another smooth surface.
Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread it into a very thin, even layer. Work quickly, as the mixture begins to set as it cools.
Allow it to cool for a few minutes until firm.
Step 4: Roll The Vadi
Cut the set layer into long strips using a knife, then gently roll each strip into neat spirals.
Your Suralichi Vadi is now ready for the final touch.
Step 5: Prepare The Tempering
Heat oil in a small pan and add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Once they begin to crackle, add asafoetida, curry leaves and green chillies.
Whether you’re looking for a light breakfast, a snack to enjoy with evening tea, or a traditional festive dish, Suralichi Vadi fits every occasion.
Since it uses relatively little oil, it can be a lighter alternative to many fried snacks. However, whether a dish fits into a healthy diet depends on your overall nutritional needs and portion size.