India boasts a rich abundance of vegetables that play a crucial role in the country's diverse culinary landscape. Among these, the yam, known as Ratalu, holds a special place in the hearts of many. The purple yam, in particular, stands out not only for its distinctive colour but also for its unique flavour profile. Often prepared as a mashed side dish with a touch of ghee, the purple yam offers a comforting and earthy sweetness. Beyond this, it finds its way into both sweet and savoury preparations, such as Ratalu Kheer and Purple Yam Sabzi. Now, a video featuring a street vendor in Surat selling Ratalu pakodas has captured the attention of food enthusiasts online.
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In the now-viral footage, the vendor chops the purple yam into thin chip-like slices coats them in a besan (gram flour) mixture with added spices, and deep-fries them in hot oil. After a sizzling fry, he stirs them with a strainer ladle and takes out the crispy purple yam pakodas - ready to be served! These pakodas retail for Rs 80 each.
Take a look:
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Well, the viewers were not impressed. A user said, “How to make a healthy vegetable unhealthy.”
Another user wrote, “They make pakodas out of everything these days.”
Some raised concerns about “hygiene” and the “repeated use of the same oil.”
“Oil be like. At least now leave me,” read a comment.
Purple yams bring both colour and health benefits to the table. Packed with complex carbs, fibre, and essential vitamins, they provide sustained energy and aid digestion. These yams are loaded with antioxidants, like anthocyanins, known for anti-inflammatory properties. They also offer minerals like potassium for heart health and vitamin C for a robust immune system. Beyond their vibrant appearance, adding purple yams to your diet brings not just colour but a nutritious boost to your overall well-being.
Purple yams also open up a world of culinary possibilities! One such delightful creation is Ratalu Puri. Check out the recipe here.