Rinse sabudana, drain, and soak in 1 cup fresh water for 4-6 hours or overnight until soft.

Steam, peel, and mash 2 medium potatoes until smooth; cool completely.

Combine soaked sabudana, mashed potatoes, ground peanuts, cumin, green chilies, red chili powder (if using), lemon juice, 1 tablespoon oil, salt, and sugar. Knead gently and form into 22 balls.

Shape vadas: keep ball-shaped for appe pan, or flatten into 2-inch discs for deep frying/air frying.

Choose cooking method: Deep fry at 350°F (175°C) until golden; Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway; or cook in an appe pan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes per side until golden.

Serve hot and enjoy your crispy Sabudana Vada!