Sambar is a flavorful and aromatic South Indian lentil stew packed with vegetables and bold spices. A staple in South Indian cuisine, this dish is known for its tangy, spicy, and savory taste, making it a perfect accompaniment to rice or dosa. Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or looking to try something new, this sambar recipe is a must-try!
South Indian Sambar Recipe :
Sambar is a beloved South Indian dish that combines toor dal (pigeon peas), tamarind, and an assortment of vegetables to create a hearty and nutritious meal. Infused with aromatic spices, this dish is not just comforting but also incredibly versatile. Serve it with steamed rice, idli, dosa, or vada for a traditional experience.
History of the Recipe :
Sambar traces its origins to Tamil Nadu and has been a cherished dish in South Indian households for centuries. Some legends suggest that it was invented in the royal kitchens of the Marathas when a cook accidentally substituted moong dal with toor dal while preparing a dish. Over time, sambar evolved into the flavorful lentil stew we know today, with each South Indian state adding its own unique twist.
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South Indian Sambar Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup toor dal (pigeon peas)
- 3 cup water
- 1 tbsp tamarind paste
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 2 tbsp sambar powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp asafoetida (hing)
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- 1 dried red chili
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 drumstick (moringa), cut into pieces
- 5-6 okra (ladyfinger), chopped
- 1/2 cup pumpkin or bottle gourd, diced
- 2 cup water (for cooking vegetables)
- 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Wash toor dal thoroughly and pressure cook it with 3 cups of water until soft and mushy.
- In a pan, heat oil and add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, dried red chili, and curry leaves. Let them splutter.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in tomatoes and cook until they soften.
- Add the chopped vegetables, turmeric powder, sambar powder, red chili powder, asafoetida, and salt.
- Pour in 2 cups of water and let the vegetables cook until tender.
- Mash the cooked dal and add it to the pan along with tamarind paste.
- Mix well and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Adjust salt and spice levels as needed.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with rice or dosa.
Notes
- Sambar tastes best when allowed to rest for a few hours, as the flavors intensify over time.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more or less water based on your preference.
Tips for South Indian Sambar Recipe :
- Use a mix of vegetables for enhanced flavor and nutrition.
- Adding a teaspoon of jaggery balances the tanginess of tamarind.
- For a richer taste, use homemade sambar powder.
FAQs for South Indian Sambar Recipe :
Q: Can I make sambar without a pressure cooker?
A: Yes! Simply cook the toor dal in a pot until soft, though it will take longer.
Q: Can I store sambar?
A: Yes, refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Q: Can I use moong dal instead of toor dal?
A: Yes, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Conclusion :
Sambar is a wholesome and comforting dish that brings together the goodness of lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices. Whether served with rice, dosa, or idli, this dish is a staple in South Indian cuisine that never fails to delight. Try this easy sambar recipe today and enjoy a taste of authentic Indian flavors!