#HeritageDay: Vaadai – an Indian treat that delights

Entrepreneur, clothing designer and mother of four children, Verushka Pather, already has a full plate, but there is always time for a tasty treat on Heritage Day.

The Ballito resident, and owner of Khanya Designs, uses the day as a way to honour both countries to which she is linked, India by heritage and South Africa by birth.

“This gives us a unique identity, especially when it comes to food – an essential part of our ancestral heritage, whether in daily preparation or on special occasions and prayer days,” said Pather.

Heritage Day also coincides with a holy month of fasting, giving extra weight to its cultural value for the Pather family and thousands of other South Africans.

For Verushka and husband Kamendran, who have both lived in India, it is important to pass these traditions on to the next generation, as well as exposing them to many cultures.

“We believe the best education to give our children Darshan (15), Tahren (12), Odyana (6) and Kailash (4) is to love God, life and humanity.”

In terms of a tasty treat for Heritage Day, Verushka has shared a recipe for the delectable snack, Vaadai.

Vaadai is a lentil croquette that when eaten with a cup of tea, can turn your worst day into a happy day, said Pather.

You can find premixes for the snack at local spice shops, but if you would like to make it yourself, follow the recipe below.

Ingredients:
1kg pea dhall
2 onions
6 green chillies
3 red chillies
1 cup coriander
½ a banana
2 tsp. jeera (cumin)
2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. sugar

Method:
Wash dhall and allow to rest for a few hours in cold water.
Once soft, drain excess water and blend to create a smooth paste.
Finely dice the onions, coriander and chillies.
Add the diced items along with all spices and the banana into the paste.
Mix together using your hands and lightly roll into small balls once the mixture holds.
Press and make a hole in the centre with your finger, before frying off in hot oil until lightly brown and crispy.
You can make a tasty dip to accompany the Vaadai, or simply eat as is.
Sit back with a cup of tea and enjoy!

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