Sundals

Sundals are a type of savory pancake or fritter originating from South India, particularly popular in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. They are typically made from a batter of ground lentils, such as urad dal (black gram) or chana dal (split chickpeas), mixed with rice flour or semolina. The batter is seasoned with spices like ginger, green chilies, cumin, and curry leaves, and sometimes includes finely chopped onions or cilantro for added flavor and texture.

The preparation of sundals involves deep-frying or pan-frying small portions of the batter until they are golden brown and crispy. The size and shape can vary, with some being small, bite-sized fritters, while others might be larger, resembling a thin pancake. Sundals are often served as a snack or appetizer, commonly accompanied by chutneys, such as coconut chutney or tomato chutney. They are a popular item in tea shops and street food stalls, appreciated for their delicious taste and satisfying crunch. Variations exist, with some recipes incorporating grated coconut or other vegetables into the batter.