Bonda

Bonda is a bite-sized fried Indian snack. Often referred to as potato bonda, it is made with a spicy mashed potato filling that is dipped in gram flour batter, then fried until crispy. It is believed that the original bonda, which includes only mashed potatoes, originated in southern India. However, there are numerous varieties and similar snacks found in almost every Indian state. In the north, a similar variety is known under the name batata vada, and it is commonly offered as a street food snack across the region. Furthermore, in Kerala, there are regional variants which replace the potatoes with tapioca, lentils, eggs, sweet potatoes, or even minced meat, and the gram flour coating is often replaced with plain or rice flour. Regardless of the varieties, these delightful snacks are usually served with coconut or coriander chutneys or tomato sauces. They can also be served as tea or coffee snacks during breakfast, and they are a common staple during the traditional Diwali festival. Bonda should always be freshly prepared and served hot or warm.