Authentic South Indian Sambar

About this recipe

Sambar is a beloved South Indian lentil stew, filled with the goodness of vegetables and aromatic spices. This comforting dish is perfect for any meal and pairs beautifully with steamed rice or idlis.

Ingredients

• 1 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, drumsticks, potato)
• 1 teaspoon oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 tablespoon sambar powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• A few curry leaves
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
• Water as required

Directions

1. 1

   Rinse the toor dal and pressure cook with 2 cups of water, adding a pinch of turmeric, until soft.

2. 2

   In a large pan, heat the oil and add mustard seeds. Once they splutter, add cumin seeds, asafoetida, and curry leaves.

3. 3

   Saute chopped onions and green chilies until the onions are translucent.

4. 4

   Add tomatoes and cook until they become soft.

5. 5

   Include mixed vegetables, sambar powder, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Stir well.

6. 6

   Pour in water and tamarind paste, cover, and cook until the vegetables are tender.

7. 7

   Stir in the cooked dal, adjust consistency with water if necessary, and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

8. 8

   Serve the sambar hot with rice or idlis.