Undu Walalu

A Traditional Sri Lankan Delight

Sri Lanka is home to a wide variety of unique and flavorful dishes, and its sweets are no exception. Among the many delectable treats, Undu Walalu stands out as a traditional favorite. This deep-fried sweet is not only rich in taste but also has a cultural significance that makes it a beloved dessert across the island. In this article, we'll explore the history of Undu Walalu, its ingredients, how to make it, and why this delicious treat is a must-try for anyone interested in Sri Lankan cuisine.

A Brief History of Undu Walalu

Undu Walalu, also known as Undu Wal, hails from the central region of Sri Lanka, particularly from the city of Matale. It is often associated with special occasions and festivals, especially during Sinhala and Tamil New Year, where traditional sweets take center stage. The name Undu Walalu translates to "Urad dal rings" because the key ingredient is undu or urad dal, a type of black gram that is commonly used in South Asian cooking.

This treat is deeply tied to the island’s cultural heritage and has been passed down through generations. It is said to have originated as a homemade delicacy, prepared in rural households during festive seasons. Over the years, Undu Walalu has become more widely available, with sweet shops across the country offering this delightful snack.

Key Ingredients

The beauty of Undu Walalu lies in its simplicity. It requires just a handful of ingredients, yet the end result is a deliciously crispy and sweet treat that melts in your mouth. Here are the key ingredients:

Urad Dal (Black Gram): The base of the recipe, urad dal is soaked, ground into a smooth paste, and shaped into rings.
Rice Flour: This helps bind the dough and adds a lightness to the texture.
Sugar Syrup: The crispy rings are coated in a thick sugar syrup, giving them their sweet flavor and glossy finish.
Cardamom: Often used to flavor the syrup, cardamom adds a fragrant spice that complements the sweetness of the dish.
Coconut Oil or Vegetable Oil: Used for deep frying, coconut oil adds a distinct Sri Lankan flavor to the Undu Walalu.

How to Make Undu Walalu

Making Undu Walalu requires some patience and attention to detail, but the process is straightforward and rewarding. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Ingredients:

1 cup urad dal (black gram)
1/2 cup rice flour
1/2 cup water (for grinding the dal)
Pinch of salt
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup water (for sugar syrup)
1/2 tsp ground cardamom (optional)
Coconut oil or vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

Soak the Urad Dal: Start by soaking the urad dal in water for about 4-6 hours. This softens the dal, making it easier to grind into a smooth paste.
Grind the Dal: After soaking, drain the water and grind the dal with a little water (about 1/2 cup) until you get a smooth, thick paste. The texture should be thick enough to pipe into shapes but not too watery.
Add Rice Flour and Salt: Mix the rice flour and a pinch of salt into the urad dal paste. The rice flour helps to firm up the batter and adds a crispiness to the final product.
Shape the Rings: Transfer the batter into a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a small hole cut at one corner. On a parchment-lined tray, pipe the batter into small rings or circles, which will be fried later.
Deep Fry the Rings: Heat the coconut oil in a deep frying pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully drop the rings into the oil and fry them until they turn golden brown. Make sure to fry them on medium heat to ensure they cook evenly and don’t burn. Once done, remove them and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Prepare the Sugar Syrup: In a separate pan, dissolve the sugar in water and bring it to a boil. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly and reaches a sticky consistency. If you like, you can add ground cardamom for extra flavor.
Coat the Rings: Once the fried rings have cooled slightly, dip them into the sugar syrup, ensuring they are fully coated. Allow them to sit for a few minutes to absorb the syrup.
Serve: After the rings have absorbed the syrup and developed a glossy finish, they are ready to be served. You can enjoy Undu Walalu warm or at room temperature.

Why You Should Try Undu Walalu

Undu Walalu is more than just a sweet snack; it’s a culinary experience that connects you to Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. Here are a few reasons why you should give this delicious treat a try:

Unique Flavor: The combination of the crispy fried exterior and the sweet, sticky syrup makes for an irresistible snack. The subtle flavor of cardamom adds a layer of complexity that elevates the overall taste.
Simple Ingredients, Complex Taste: With only a few basic ingredients, Undu Walalu delivers a delightful taste experience. The urad dal provides a nutty flavor, while the sugar syrup adds sweetness without being overwhelming.
Perfect for Celebrations: Undu Walalu is often prepared for special occasions, making it an ideal treat to share with family and friends during holidays or celebrations. It’s a wonderful way to introduce a taste of Sri Lankan tradition to your loved ones.
Satisfying Crunch: The texture of Undu Walalu is a big part of its appeal. The outer layer is crispy, while the inside remains soft and chewy, offering a satisfying contrast in every bite.

Conclusion

Undu Walalu is a quintessential Sri Lankan sweet that captures the essence of the island’s culinary traditions. With its simple ingredients, delicate flavors, and cultural significance, it’s no wonder that this delightful treat has stood the test of time. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to try something new, Undu Walalu is a must-try recipe that will bring a taste of Sri Lanka into your kitchen.

Next time you’re in the mood for something sweet, why not try making Undu Walalu? It’s a delightful way to explore the rich flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine while creating a dessert that’s perfect for sharing with others.