Delicious Vegetarian Dahi Vada Recipe for Food Lovers

Name: Delicious Vegetarian Dahi Vada Recipe for Food Lovers
Cuisine: indian

Elegant presentation of Vegetarian Dahi Vada

Intro

For those who appreciate the art of cooking, Vegetarian Dahi Vada emerges as a canvas where flavors and textures intertwine, creating a dish that captivates the senses. This traditional Indian delicacy stands as a testament to the culinary skills passed down through generations. Made with lentil-based fritters soaked in creamy yogurt, Dahi Vada isn't just a dish; it's an experience to savor.

Beyond its delightful taste, the vada holds significance in festivities and family gatherings, often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. This guide will intricately walk you through the preparation, infusing it with cultural significance and culinary techniques.

Ingredients:

To embark on this culinary journey, you will require the following ingredients, measured with precision to ensure optimal flavor:

For the Vada:
For the Yogurt Mixture:
For Garnishing:

1 cup urad dal (black gram lentils)
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1-2 green chilies, finely chopped
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
Salt, to taste
Oil, for deep frying

2 cups plain yogurt
1 teaspoon chaat masala
1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
Salt, to taste

Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
Pomegranate seeds (optional)
Tamarind chutney (optional, for enhanced flavor)

This collection of ingredients is what sets the foundation for your exquisite Dahi Vada. Ensuring freshness is key to preserving the dish's integrity.

Detailed Instructions:

The preparation of Vegetarian Dahi Vada unfolds like a well-crafted story, as each step reveals the intricate dance of flavor and tradition:

Soak the Lentils:
In a bowl, soak the urad dal in water for at least 4-5 hours, or overnight for best results. This softening is crucial, as it paves the way for easy grinding.
Prepare the Vada Mixture:
Once soaked, drain the dal and blend it in a food processor. Add cumin seeds, green chilies, and ginger to the mix. Aim for a smooth, yet thick batter. Incorporating very little water is key here.
Fry the Vadas:
Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Fry until they turn golden brown, paying attention to ensure they don’t clump together. This step usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Soak in Water:
Once fried, remove the vadas and let them soak in warm water for about 10-15 minutes. It’s this step that softens them perfectly, allowing them to absorb the yogurt flavor later.
Prepare the Yogurt Mixture:
In a separate bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth. Add chaat masala, roasted cumin powder, and salt. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
Assemble the Dish:
After the vadas have soaked, gently squeeze them to remove excess water. Arrange them on a serving platter and pour the yogurt mixture over them.
Garnish and Serve:
Top with chopped coriander, a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds, and a drizzle of tamarind chutney if desired.

"The beauty of cooking lies not just in following recipes, but in the love and attention poured into each dish."

Technical Aspects:

Keeping a few technical details in mind can significantly enhance your cooking process:

Temperature Settings: Always ensure your oil is hot but not smoking. This ensures the vadas are crispy without absorbing excess oil.
Timing Specifics: Frying the vadas typically takes around 5-7 minutes. If you can smell the golden aroma wafting from the pan, it’s likely time to check them.
Critical Techniques: When blending the urad dal, avoid adding too much water. A thick batter is essential for achieving the right texture.

Cooking Process:

Navigating through various sequential steps can help ensure consistency in flavor and texture:

Mixing the Ingredients: Achieve a beautifully combined mixture by integrating spices as you blend the lentils.
Monitoring Heat Levels: Adjust the flame to maintain steady heat while frying, allowing for an even golden hue.
Presentation Tips: Use a shallow dish for serving, allowing the yogurt to pool beautifully around the vadas, creating a visual feast.

Troubleshooting Tips:

Cooking can sometimes throw curveballs your way. Here are answers to common mishaps:

Vadas Not Frying Properly: If they’re falling apart, the batter may be too thin. Try adding a touch more urad dal.
Yogurt Is Sour: If your yogurt sits for too long, it might develop a sour taste. Consider adding a pinch of sugar to balance it out a little.
Overly Firm Vadas: If they turn out dense, ensure that you’ve soaked them adequately before serving.

As you venture into making this exquisite Vegetarian Dahi Vada, take a moment to appreciate the techniques and flavors that come together, creating not just a dish, but an avenue to rich culinary traditions. Happy cooking!

Preamble to Dahi Vada

Dahi Vada, a delightful dish that combines soft lentil dumplings soaked in creamy yogurt, is not just a treat for the palette but a culinary masterpiece with rich historical and cultural roots. In this introductory section, we will dive into the essentials of Dahi Vada, shedding light on its importance in Indian cuisine and its esteemed status among vegetarian dishes. Understanding Dahi Vada goes beyond tasting it; it involves appreciating its intricate preparations, the dance of ingredients, and the flavors that come alive in each serving.

One of the primary benefits of knowing about Dahi Vada is its versatility. It can be served as a starter, a snack, or even as a light meal, catering to various occasions from regular family dinners to grand festivities. The ease of preparation, complemented by the stunning flavors, makes Dahi Vada a go-to dish for home cooks aiming to impress their guests.

Historical Context of Dahi Vada

Dahi Vada traces its origins back centuries. The earliest historical mentions suggest that this dish has been cherished in ancient texts and traditions. It is believed to have evolved from regional variations of lentil fritters, influenced by common cooking techniques and local ingredients. Some historians point to connections with similar dishes found in various cultures, making Dahi Vada a true representation of culinary evolution. It encapsulates the ability to adapt and reinvent itself, reflecting the shifts in society and taste.

Interestingly, during festivities, Dahi Vada has often been associated with sharing, hospitality, and celebration. In many households, preparing Dahi Vada during special occasions symbolizes love and warmth, accentuating its significance beyond just being a dish on the table.

Cultural Significance

In Indian culture, food is much more than sustenance; it’s tied to emotions, traditions, and identities. Dahi Vada holds a special place in various regions, pushing it into the limelight during festivities such as weddings, Diwali, and Holi. The dish brings together family and friends, creating shared moments over the dining table.

Exquisite toppings on Vegetarian Dahi Vada

Moreover, Dahi Vada doesn’t only cater to traditional palates. Its ability to incorporate regional spices and ingredients makes it highly adaptable, allowing for creative interpretations.

"Every mouthful of Dahi Vada narrates a story of culture, tradition, and culinary art, evolving yet retaining its essence."

As culinary enthusiasts embark on the journey to prepare and enjoy Dahi Vada, they are not just making a dish; they are participating in a rich tapestry of history and culture, providing a common thread that binds generations through food.

Understanding Ingredients

In the quest to master any recipe, understanding the ingredients is paramount. It’s not just about knowing what goes into a dish; it’s about grasping why these components matter and how they interact with each other to create flavor, texture, and nutritional value.

Especially for a dish like Dahi Vada, knowing your ingredients can elevate your culinary skills, making the preparation more straightforward and the end result more harmonious. Familiarity with the key components opens up opportunities for creativity in the kitchen, while their unique characteristics provide insight into how to best use them, ensuring every bite is delectable.

Key Components

Urad dal (Black Gram)

Urad dal is the backbone of Dahi Vada. This small, black-skinned bean has a soft white interior, which is what you’ll be using after soaking and grinding it into a smooth batter. One of the most attractive features of urad dal is its high protein content. This makes it an outstanding choice for vegetarians looking for sustenance and body nourishment.

Its creamy consistency when blended gives the vadas a delightful texture that is both fluffy and crisp when fried. However, it's vital to soak the dal for at least five to six hours.

Not soaking it long enough can result in a grainy batter, which detracts from the overall mouthfeel of the dish. Thus, while urad dal offers great advantages, proper preparation is crucial to really unlock its potential.

Spices and Seasonings

No dish can flourish without a sprinkle of spices to ignite the senses. In Dahi Vada, spices like cumin and black pepper are essential. They add warmth and depth, transforming a simple batter into a flavorsome delight.

Moreover, the inclusion of salt, when balanced just right, enhances the natural flavors of the dal while also complementing the cooling effect of the dahi. Each spice plays a specific role, ensuring that the taste hits all the right notes.

A unique aspect of using spices in this recipe is that they can be adjusted based on personal preference. While some may enjoy a little kick from red chili powder, others might lean towards a more mild experience, which emphasizes the yogurt's creamy goodness.

Dahi (Yogurt)

Dahi, or yogurt, is more than just a component; it's the heart of this dish. Its tangy flavor contrasts elegantly with the fried vadas, creating a delightful harmony. Not only does dahi add taste, but its probiotic content also promotes gut health, making Dahi Vada not just a treat but a wholesome dish.

Opting for fresh dahi significantly enhances the dish's flavor profile. The creamy richness of full-fat yogurt lends a velvety texture that clings beautifully to the vadas, making each bite a luscious experience. If lactose is a concern, alternatives like soy or coconut yogurt can also work, though they might alter the flavor a tad.

Chutneys and Garnishes

Chutneys and garnishes are like the icing on the cake for Dahi Vada. Whether it's tangy tamarind chutney or vibrant mint cilantro chutney, these accompaniments can significantly modify the overall flavor experience.

Each chutney brings its own unique layer to the dish — the sweet, sour notes of tamarind combine well with the cooling yogurt, creating a balanced indulgence. Garnishing with pomegranate seeds or a sprinkle of chaat masala adds a burst of color and an extra crunch, making the dish visually appealing and texturally interesting.

These elements not only increase the flavor complexity but also contribute to a more vibrant presentation, which is vital for any culinary enthusiast looking to impress guests.

Nutritional Profile

Understanding the nutritional profile is essential for anyone who values a balanced diet. The combination of urad dal, yogurt, and spices offers a healthy mix of protein, probiotics, and vitamins that, collectively, contribute to good health. By honing in on the specifics of these ingredients, you can appreciate Dahi Vada in a whole new light, not just as a delightful dish, but as a nourishing part of your diet.

Preparation Techniques

Preparation Techniques are the backbone of crafting exquisite Vegetarian Dahi Vada, demanding both precision and care. Mastery in these techniques transforms simple ingredients into a delightful dish that tantalizes the taste buds. Each step, whether it be soaking the dal or assembling the final product, carries significance that affects not only the texture but also the flavor profile of the Dahi Vada. In this article, we will delve deeper into the critical aspects of preparation, ensuring that both novice and seasoned cooks can appreciate the finesse involved in this revered Indian delicacy.

Soaking and Grinding the Dal

The journey to perfect Dahi Vada begins with the soaking and grinding of the Urad dal. This seemingly straightforward step is vital in achieving the right texture – light, airy, and fluffy. Ideally, the dal should soak for six to eight hours or overnight. Such soaking facilitates the starches to absorb water, making the dal soft and easier to grind.

After soaking, the dal is ready for grinding. Here, one important point to keep in mind is to grind without adding too much water. A thick batter won’t just hold its shape while frying but will also yield a pleasing consistency. Consider using a heavy-duty stone grinder or a high-quality mixer grinder for optimal results. Grind the dal to a smooth paste that is thick but pourable, allowing for a good mix of air in the batter.

"Getting the grinding just right is the secret to light and fluffy vadas that float perfectly in the yogurt!"

Frying and Shaping the Vadas

Frying and shaping the Vadas is arguably where the magic happens. This step requires careful attention to the oil temperature. Heat the oil in a deep pan; it should be hot enough to allow the vadas to sizzle as soon as they hit the surface. If the oil is too cold, the vadas will absorb excess oil and turn greasy instead of crisp.

Fresh ingredients for Vegetarian Dahi Vada

As you prepare to shape the vadas, wet your hands to ensure the batter doesn’t stick. Take a small portion of the batter and shape it into a smooth disc. Making a small indent in the center helps them hold the chutney later. Drop them gently into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown on both sides, allowing the flavors to develop and creating a lovely outer crust while keeping the inside soft and delicious.

Assembling the Dahi Vada

Once the vadas have fried to perfection, the assembly process kicks off, contributing significantly to the overall taste and presentation. First, soak the fried vadas in warm water for about 10 minutes. This step ensures they are tender and ready to soak up the flavorful yogurt and chutneys later.

After soaking, gently squeeze each vada to remove excess water. Now, place them on a platter and layer generously with fresh, whisked yogurt. A light drizzle of tamarind chutney and a sprinkle of spices can elevate the flavors—think roasted cumin, red chili powder, and perhaps a hint of chaat masala for an extra kick.

For presentation, consider adding some chopped coriander and pomegranate seeds for color and crunch. The sight of well-arranged Dahi Vada, glistening with chutneys and topped with spices, never fails to impress.

Ultimately, the technique of assembling Dahi Vada is not merely about taste but also about the visual appeal—leaving a lasting impression on everyone who gets to relish this flavorful treat.

This preparation phase sets the stage for a nutritious, delightful dish that embodies tradition and flavor. Mastering these techniques enables a cook to explore various styles and variations, ensuring that every plate of Dahi Vada served is simply exquisite.

Variations of Dahi Vada

Dahi Vada, while cherished in its traditional form, offers a canvas for culinary creativity. Each region of India brings its own twist to this delightful dish, reflecting local flavors, ingredients, and cultural influences. Understanding these variations not only enriches your cooking repertoire but also showcases the versatility of Dahi Vada. When one learns to appreciate these diverse adaptations, it opens the door to exploring regional tastes and textures, ultimately enhancing the dining experience.

North Indian Style

In the northern regions of India, Dahi Vada is often enjoyed with a vibrant blend of spices and toppings. The core component remains the urad dal vadas, soft and fluffy, soaked in creamy yogurt. What sets this style apart is the generous slathering of tangy and sweet chutneys.

The combination of sweet tamarind chutney and spicy green chutney enhances the vadas, bringing together a delightful taste that dances on the palate. Following are key elements that characterize North Indian Dahi Vada:

Garnishes: Sprinkle of chaat masala, finely chopped coriander, and pomegranate seeds add both visual appeal and an explosion of flavor.
Presentation: Often served as a part of chaat, these vadas can be plated in layers, creating an impressive party dish.
Texture: The contrast between the creamy yogurt and crispy vadas, coupled with the herbs, creates a multisensory experience.

South Indian Adaptation

Down south, the approach to Dahi Vada shifts dramatically. While the essence of the dish is retained, South Indian versions incorporate local ingredients and spices, reflecting the region's palate. Here, the vadis might be flavored with curry leaves or mustard seeds, adding a unique twist.

A notable variation is the Medu Vada, which is typically served with coconut chutney instead of yogurt. However, for those craving the classic Dahi Vada experience, South Indian adaptations offer:

Coconut Chutney: A refreshing condiment that pairs beautifully with vadas.
Idli or Sambar on the side: Adding depth to the meal, sometimes transforming the dish into a full-fledged feast.
Use of lentils: Substituting urad dal with moong dal gives a lighter consistency.

Fusion Variants

As global gastronomy evolves, fusion variants of Dahi Vada emerge, blending Indian traditions with international influences. Such creativity breathes new life into this classic dish. Consider these intriguing takes:

Mexican Dahi Vada: Incorporating guacamole and sour cream, this variant transforms the traditional by introducing creamy avocado and a hint of spice.
Italian Flare: Using balsamic reduction instead of chutneys, combined with basil-infused yogurt, adds a European twist.
Quinoa Vada: A health-conscious alternative, using quinoa instead of urad dal, creates a gluten-free dish without losing the spirit of Dahi Vada.

This mingling of culinary cultures fosters innovation, making Dahi Vada not just a traditional dish, but a gateway to experiment, offering endless possibilities.

Serving Suggestions

Serving suggestions play an essential role in transforming a simple dish like Dahi Vada into a celebrated culinary experience. The way a dish is presented, coupled with the pairings served alongside it, can greatly affect the perception and enjoyment of flavors. For home cooks looking to impress family or guests, thoughtful serving choices can elevate their dining experience from ordinary to extraordinary.

One crucial aspect of serving suggestions relates to the balance of flavors. Dahi Vada, already rich in taste, can be complemented by the right accompaniments that enhance its profile. Think about contrasting textures and flavors. For instance, the creaminess of the dahi can be beautifully offset with crispy fried snacks, or a spicy side. Such pairings not only entice the palate but also create a delightful sensory experience.

Moreover, presentation is another vital consideration. A beautifully arranged plate can evoke appreciation even before the first bite is taken. Using a vibrant platter, garnishing with fresh herbs, or even incorporating colorful chutneys can capture attention and make the dish more inviting.

In essence, serving suggestions encompass thoughtful pairings and aesthetics that make the dining experience memorable. A carefully curated approach can turn a simple meal into a celebration of flavors, textures, and visual allure that will stay in the minds of your diners long after the last vada is enjoyed.

Ideal Pairings

When it comes to Dahi Vada, selecting complementary dishes can truly enhance the overall meal. Here are some suggestions:

Crispy Papad: The crunchiness of papad adds a delightful contrast to the smoothness of Dahi Vada. Lightly roasted or spiced, these can break up the texture.
Spicy Chutneys: Accompaniment with tangy tamarind chutney or mint-coriander chutney offers a burst of flavor that stimulates the taste buds.
Fresh Salad: A simple cucumber and onion salad can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the vadas, adding crunch without overpowering the main dish.
Pickles: A small side of mixed Indian pickles can introduce a tangy and spicy element, serving to cut through the richness and making each bite a new experience.

These pairings not only flatter the flavors of Dahi Vada but also create a well-rounded meal, appealing to a range of tastes and preferences.

Presentation Tips

Presenting Dahi Vada in an appealing manner can significantly uplift the dining experience. Here are some suggestions for making your dish stand out:

Soothing ambiance for enjoying Vegetarian Dahi Vada

Use a Wide, White Plate: A stark contrast with a white plate allows the vibrant colors of the vadas and garnishes to pop, drawing attention to the dish.
Layering Technique: For an aesthetic touch, serve the vadas layered in a bowl, drizzling with yogurt and chutneys from the top. This creates an inviting visual appeal.
Garnish Generously: Sprinkle fresh coriander leaves or pomegranate seeds atop to introduce color and a hint of freshness. These little touches make a big difference.
Designate a Side Space for Chutneys: Consider serving chutneys in small bowls on the side. This allows guests to choose their own level of spice and tanginess.
Temperature Matters: Ensure the vadas are served chilled, while the toppings can be at room temperature for the best balance.

With these serving suggestions and presentation tips, the dining experience can become not just a meal but a celebration that resonates with everyone at the table.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Cooking, much like any form of art, comes with its own set of challenges and common pitfalls. For culinary enthusiasts keen on mastering Dahi Vada, understanding these missteps can significantly enhance the final dish. By sidestepping these errors, not only do you improve the chances of creating a magnificent plate of Dahi Vada, but you also elevate your overall cooking skills. Let’s delve into two major mistakes that can turn this delightful fare into a less-than-stellar experience.

Incorrect Soaking Times

Soaking the dal, a pivotal step in preparing the Dahi Vada, is often underestimated. Some home cooks might skimp on this crucial phase. The typical recommendation is to soak urad dal for at least 4 to 6 hours. However, certain factors can impact this timeframe, such as the age of the dal and the local water hardness. If you find your mixture gritty instead of creamy, it's likely that the dal wasn't soaked long enough.

Moreover, skipping soaking altogether can lead to dense vadas that are more akin to bricks than the feather-light creations you intend.

Tip: Always soak your dal overnight when possible, especially for large batches. A longer soak allows the dal to absorb water uniformly, making blending much smoother.

Overcooking the Vadas

Overcooking the vadas is another easy trap for even seasoned cooks. Frying them for too long can render them dry and chewy, stripping away the delightful soft texture. It’s essential to keep a watchful eye during this stage. Ideally, they should be golden brown, which usually takes around 4 to 5 minutes on medium heat. If you find that your first few vadas end up resembling little rocks, it may be time to adjust your frying technique.

To combat the temptation of overcooking, consider the following:

Use a Thermometer: Keeping an eye on the oil temperature can help ensure your vadas fry evenly. It should be around 350°F (175°C).
Test Fry: Fry one vada first as a test. If it cooks beautifully, you can proceed with the rest in confidence.

Being aware of these common mistakes lends great advantage; you’ll not only end up with perfect Dahi Vadas, but also gain confidence in your cooking journey. By avoiding incorrect soaking times and overcooking, you’ll find that the process becomes much smoother and the results significantly gratifying.

Health Considerations

When it comes to preparing Vegetarian Dahi Vada, a dish that tickles the taste buds, it’s equally important to focus on health considerations. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also provides a plethora of nutrition, making it suitable for various dietary needs. By understanding its health benefits, one can enjoy this culinary delight with a clear conscience, knowing they’re making a wholesome choice.

Vegetarian Nutritional Benefits

For those following a vegetarian lifestyle or just incorporating more plant-based meals, Dahi Vada stands out for several reasons.

Protein-Packed: One of the primary ingredients, urad dal, is an excellent source of plant-based protein. This can be beneficial in maintaining muscle health, especially for those who might be missing out on protein from meat sources.
Rich in Probiotics: The yogurt component, or dahi, is teeming with probiotics. These are beneficial bacteria that aid in digestion and contribute to gut health. Regular consumption can help keep one's digestive system running smoothly.
Heart-Friendly Fats: When prepared with minimal oil for frying or baked instead of deep-fried, it can be a heart-healthy dish. The use of yogurt adds beneficial fats that are essential for maintaining overall health.
Source of Fiber: The lentils provide dietary fiber, which can help in maintaining healthy digestion and can keep one fuller for longer, aiding in weight management.

In essence, Vegetarian Dahi Vada not only serves as a delightful snack but also packs a powerful nutritional punch, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Possible Modifications for Dietary Restrictions

Crafting the perfect Dahi Vada can also cater to varying dietary needs—making this dish more inclusive. Here are some modifications one might consider:

Gluten-Free Option: Traditional Dahi Vada is naturally gluten-free due to its base of urad dal. However, make sure to check the labels on chutneys or any sauces if store-bought, to ensure they are gluten-free.
Dairy-Free Alternative: For those avoiding dairy, coconut yogurt can be a fantastic substitute for regular yogurt. The flavor profile might include a slight coconut essence but complements the spices well.
Low Calorie: If aiming to reduce calorie intake, one can bake the vadas instead of frying. This significantly cuts down on oil usage while still achieving a satisfying texture and flavor.
Nut-Free: If there are nut allergies involved, always check the blends of spices and opt for more traditional ones if unsure, as some recipes might introduce nuts into the chutney or garnish sections.

With these modifications, Vegetarian Dahi Vada can be enjoyed by everyone—from the health-conscious individual to those with specific dietary requirements.

"Nutritional adjustments can help make this delightful dish accessible to all, ensuring no one feels left out from enjoying such a cherished culinary tradition."

To summarize, being mindful of health considerations while preparing this traditional dish can lead to variations that not only suit individual preferences but also enhance the overall dining experience.

Finale

In wrapping up our exploration of the exquisite Vegetarian Dahi Vada, it's clear that this dish is more than just a recipe; it is a celebration of flavors, textures, and cultural significance. The conclusion serves as a vital aspect of this article, emphasizing the important elements that make Dahi Vada a beloved staple in Indian cuisine. One must appreciate not only the intricate preparation steps involved but also the community and tradition that surround this dish.

Summary of Key Points

Dahi Vada involves various intricate steps from soaking the urad dal, frying the vadas, to the final assembly with yogurt and chutneys. Each step contributes significantly to the overall taste, texture, and visual appeal of the dish. Moreover, understanding the historical and cultural roots of Dahi Vada adds depth to its culinary appreciation.

When making Dahi Vada, attention to detail is paramount. Mistakes such as incorrect soaking times or overcooking can affect the dish's success. Recognizing how to avoid these common pitfalls is crucial for presenting the perfect Dahi Vada.

Nutritional benefits like high protein content from urad dal make this dish not just delicious but also a healthy option for vegetarians. Additionally, modifications for dietary restrictions can personalize the dish while maintaining its essence.

Encouragement for Exploration

I encourage every culinary enthusiast, whether a seasoned chef or a newbie, to dive into crafting Vegetarian Dahi Vada. Don't just stop at the traditional recipe; feel free to experiment with flavors, textures, and presentations. Try different chutneys, or perhaps even incorporate seasonal ingredients to freshen things up. The kitchen should be a space of creativity and personal expression.

"Cooking isn't just about feeding the body, it's a way to nourish the soul."

Explore variations of Dahi Vada from different regions, or fuse it with global ingredients to create a hybrid dish that speaks to your own tastes. Let your palate lead the way, and don’t be afraid to bend the rules a little. Dahi Vada offers a canvas; how you paint it is entirely up to you.

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