Soft & Spongy Dahi Bhalla (Indian Yogurt Lentil Fritters)

Soft and Sponge Dahi Bhala at home

Are your homemade Dahi Bhallas turning out hard or dry inside? Worry no more! Today, I’m sharing the easiest method to make halwai-style, soft, spongy, and super tasty Dahi Bhallas at home. Follow this step-by-step guide, and your bhallas will be soft, airy, and full of flavor — just like the ones from your favorite sweet shop!


🛒 Ingredients:

  • 300 gm urad dal (white, skinless)
  • 50 gm moong dal (split, skinless)
  • 1 tsp chopped green chili
  • 1 tsp chopped ginger
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 500 ml oil (for frying)
  • Chopped coriander
  • 300 ml curd (sweetened)
  • 3 tsp powdered sugar
  • Tamarind (saunth) chutney
  • Mint chutney
  • Roasted cumin powder

🧑‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Soak the Lentils

  • Wash 300 gm urad dal and 50 gm moong dal thoroughly in water (2–3 times).
  • Soak in double the amount of water for 6 hours. The lentils will puff up nicely.

2. Grinding the Batter

  • Do not discard the soaking water — you’ll need a little of it while grinding.
  • Grind the lentils in batches with minimal water to keep the batter thick.
  • The batter should not be runny — aim for a thick and fluffy texture.

3. Whipping the Batter

  • Transfer the batter to a large bowl.
  • Whisk it in one direction using your hand. This aerates the batter and makes the bhallas light and spongy.
  • Test by dropping a small amount in water — if it floats, it’s ready!

4. Add Flavors

  • Mix in: chopped coriander, chopped green chili, chopped ginger, salt, and cumin seeds.
  • Mix gently again in the same direction and let it rest for 10 minutes.

5. Frying the Bhallas

  • Wet your hand slightly and scoop out small portions of batter.
  • Heat oil on low flame. Gently drop the batter into the oil.
  • Do not shape too much; they will naturally form round.
  • Fry on medium-low heat for 6–7 minutes, flipping occasionally.
  • They should turn golden and puff up beautifully.

🔁 Pro Tip: Sprinkle a bit of water over the bhallas while frying — it helps them rise and stay soft.

6. Soaking in Salt Water

  • Prepare lukewarm water with 1 tsp salt and a pinch of asafoetida (hing).
  • Soak the fried bhallas in this water for 20 minutes. This removes excess oil and makes them absorbent.
Soak the Fried Bhala in water

7. Prepare the Yogurt (Dahi)

  • Take fresh, sweet curd (not sour).
  • Add ½ tsp salt and 2–3 tsp powdered sugar.
  • Mix well until smooth and creamy.

8. Assemble the Dahi Bhallas

  • Gently squeeze the soaked bhallas to remove excess water.
  • Place them in a serving plate or bowl.
  • Generously pour sweetened yogurt over the bhallas.
  • Top with tamarind chutney, mint chutney, and a sprinkle of roasted cumin powder.

🌟 Serving Tips:

  • Serve chilled for best taste.
  • Perfect for festivals, family gatherings, or a weekend treat!
  • Can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days and assembled fresh each time.
How to make dahi Bhala at home easy and healthy.

🔚 Conclusion

These halwai-style Dahi Bhallas are incredibly soft, spongy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe guarantees success every time.

Try it out and let me know how your bhallas turned out in the comments below! 💬
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