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Introduction

Sambar is one of the most beloved dishes in South Indian cuisine. This hearty and flavorful stew is made with lentils, vegetables, tamarind, and a special blend of spices known as sambar powder. It is a staple in South Indian households and is enjoyed with idli, dosa, rice, or vada. The combination of protein-rich lentils and nutrient-packed vegetables makes sambar both delicious and healthy.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cook, this article will guide you through the process of making an authentic and mouth-watering sambar at home. Let’s dive into this step-by-step sambar recipe and discover the magic of South Indian flavors!

Ingredients Required

For Cooking Dal

• 1 cup toor dal (pigeon pea lentils)

• 3 cups water

• ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder

For Sambar

• 2 tablespoons oil (coconut or sesame oil recommended)

• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

• ½ teaspoon fenugreek seeds

• 1-2 dried red chilies

• 10-12 curry leaves

• 1 medium onion (chopped) or 10-12 shallots

• 1 large tomato (chopped)

• 1 carrot (chopped)

• 5-6 beans (chopped)

• ½ cup pumpkin (cubed)

• ½ cup drumstick (cut into pieces)

• 1 green chili (slit)

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1½ tablespoons sambar powder

• 1 tablespoon tamarind pulp

• 2½ cups water

• 2 tablespoons coriander leaves (chopped)

For Garnishing

• 2 tablespoons grated coconut (optional)

• 1 teaspoon ghee (optional)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cooking the Dal

1. Wash the toor dal under running water until the water runs clear.

2. In a pressure cooker, add the washed dal, turmeric powder, and 3 cups of water.

3. Close the lid and cook for 3-4 whistles or until the dal becomes soft and mushy.

4. Once the pressure releases naturally, mash the dal using a ladle or whisk and keep it aside.

Step 2: Preparing Tamarind Extract

1. Soak a small lemon-sized ball of tamarind in ½ cup of warm water for 10 minutes.

2. Squeeze out the pulp and strain the extract. Set it aside.

Step 3: Cooking the Vegetables

1. Heat oil in a large pan or deep pot.

2. Add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter.

3. Add fenugreek seeds, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.

4. Add chopped onions or shallots and sauté until they turn golden brown.

5. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and mushy.

6. Add the chopped vegetables, green chili, and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 2-3 minutes.

7. Pour 2½ cups of water into the pot, cover, and allow the vegetables to cook until tender.

Step 4: Adding Spices and Dal

1. Once the vegetables are cooked, add the tamarind extract and stir well.

2. Sprinkle the sambar powder and mix thoroughly. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.

3. Add the mashed dal and mix well to combine all the flavors.

4. Simmer for another 5 minutes, adjusting the consistency with water if necessary.

5. Taste and adjust salt as needed.

Step 5: Final Touch and Garnishing

1. Stir in freshly chopped coriander leaves.

2. If desired, add a teaspoon of ghee for extra aroma and richness.

3. For a Kerala-style sambar, you can add grated coconut before serving.
   

Serving Suggestions

Sambar is a versatile dish that pairs well with various South Indian delicacies:

• Idli Sambar: A classic breakfast combination where soft, steamed idlis soak up the flavorful sambar.

• Dosa Sambar: Crispy dosa served with hot sambar and coconut chutney.

• Rice Sambar: A wholesome meal when served with steamed rice, papadam, and a side of pickle.

• Medu Vada Sambar: Deep-fried lentil fritters dunked in warm sambar for a delightful taste.

Tips for Making the Best Sambar

1. Use a Variety of Vegetables: Drumsticks, carrots, radish, pumpkin, and brinjal enhance the taste of sambar.

2. Properly Cooked Dal: Make sure the dal is well-mashed for a creamy consistency.

3. Tamarind Balance: Adjust the amount of tamarind extract based on your preference for tanginess.

4. Homemade Sambar Powder: If possible, use homemade sambar powder for an authentic flavor.

5. Extra Flavoring: Adding a spoon of ghee before serving enhances the aroma and taste.

6. Consistency Matters: Sambar should neither be too thick nor too watery—adjust as needed.
   

Health Benefits of Sambar

A sambar recipe is not just a delicious dish but also a nutritious one. Here are some health benefits:

• Rich in Protein: Toor dal is a great source of plant-based protein, essential for muscle growth.

• High in Fiber: The mix of lentils and vegetables provides dietary fiber, aiding digestion.

• Packed with Vitamins & Minerals: Sambar contains vitamin A, C, E, potassium, and iron.

• Low in Fat: When cooked with minimal oil, sambar is a low-fat and heart-friendly dish.

• Good for Gut Health: The fiber content promotes a healthy digestive system.

Conclusion

Sambar is more than just a dish—it is a celebration of South Indian flavors and traditions. With its blend of spices, tangy tamarind, and hearty lentils, sambar is both comforting and nutritious. Whether served with idli, dosa, or rice, this versatile dish is a favorite in households across India.