Poppadums (available in the "International Foods" or "Gourmet "sections of many supermarkets)
Mango chutney
Vegetable oil

Simply fry the poppadums in vegetable oil individually for approximately one minute, tuning once. The poppadums will expand greatly as they cook. Place the cooked poppadums on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve with Mango chutney. Poppadums and Mango chutney are also traditional accompaniments with the main meal. If you cannot find poppadums then you can substitute pita bread that has been toasted in the oven. Pita bread is not the same as poppadums, which are very light and crunchy, but do work well with the chutney and the main course.

The Skinny: Use the paper towels to absorb as much of the oil as possible. Also, many of the new types of poppadums you can get now are microwavable. Even if you are not sure, try microwaving the poppadums one at a time for about a minute to see if they puff up like they are supposed to. They are much lighter and more healthful if microwaved instead of fried.

Raita

8 oz. plain yogurt
1 cucumber peeled and sliced thin
1 Tbsp. mint jelly or mint sauce
Salt and sugar to taste (start off with about 1 tsp. each of salt and sugar).
1 tsp. paprika
Fresh mint for garnish

Mix yogurt, cucumber, mint jelly or sauce, salt and sugar together and garnish with paprika and mint leaves. Chill for one hour before serving.

The Skinny: Use low fat or fat free yogurt.

Onion Bhajis

1 cup gram flour
1 tsp. salt
One half tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. cumin
2 onions finely chopped
1 tsp. fennel seeds
1 tsp. coriander
One half cup warm water
Cilantro leaves for garnish

Sift flour, salt, chili power, and cumin together in large bowl. Add onions, fennel seeds, coriander and water. Mix together until smooth. Heat oil in deep fryer or deep pan until hot. Add spoonfuls or mixture to hot oil and fry until golden brown, usually 5 - 6 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Serve hot and garnish with cilantro. These goodies are a little like hush puppies but with a different flavor.

The Skinny: Use the paper towels to absorb as much oil as possible.