There is nothing more comforting than Vadai - a South Indian savory fritters made with lentils and look alike of doughnuts. They always play a part during all festivals, although they are enjoyed in different other ways. The number of dishes that are made from this basic Vadai is mind boggling - from Sambar Vadai to Rasa Vadai to Thayir Vadai not to talk about some more like Vadakari etc. Variations are bountiful and every one of them is as enjoyed as the next one. But it all starts from this - the most basic of all Vadai's. Although they can be made with holes in the middle most of the time it is not necessary to do so. In my in-laws place, they avoid putting holes when it comes to making these for the festivals (reason unknown) and in my mother's place - they dint even think of putting one (again-reason unknown!) cos they just dint!:) :) But every time we have had guests or friends, they always preferred them with holes and I have been asked how I manage to do one with holes easily when it is supposedly very difficult.Believe me - they are not and after this pictorial - you would think likewise too.