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Introduction

Sambar is a beloved South Indian dish that has found its way into kitchens across India and beyond. This flavorful, tangy, and nutritious lentil-based stew is prepared with a variety of vegetables, aromatic spices, and tamarind extract. It is a staple in South Indian households and is commonly served with rice, idli, dosa, or vada. The beauty of sambar recipe lies in its versatility, as it can be customized with different vegetables and spices to suit individual tastes.

Ingredients

For Pressure Cooking:

• 1 cup toor dal (pigeon pea lentils)

• 3 cups water

• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon oil

For Sambar Preparation:

• 1 tablespoon oil (preferably coconut or sesame oil)

• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1/4 teaspoon fenugreek seeds

• 2 dried red chilies

• 1 sprig curry leaves

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 1 medium tomato, chopped

• 1/2 cup tamarind extract (soaked and strained tamarind pulp)

• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrot, drumstick, brinjal, okra, beans, etc.)

• 2 tablespoons sambar powder

• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)

• 1 teaspoon salt (or as required)

• 2 cups water (adjust as needed)

• 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)

• 1 teaspoon jaggery (optional, for slight sweetness)

• Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Cooking the Dal

1. Wash the toor dal thoroughly and soak it for about 15–20 minutes.

2. Add the dal to a pressure cooker along with water, turmeric powder, salt, and oil.

3. Cook for about 3–4 whistles or until the dal becomes soft and mushy.

4. Mash the cooked dal and keep it aside.
   

Step 2: Preparing the Tamarind Extract

1. Soak a small lemon-sized ball of tamarind in warm water for about 10–15 minutes.

2. Squeeze the tamarind to extract its juice and strain out the pulp.
   

Step 3: Tempering the Spices

1. Heat oil in a pan or kadhai over medium heat.

2. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.

3. Add cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, dried red chilies, and curry leaves.

4. Sauté until the spices release their aroma.
   

Step 4: Cooking the Vegetables

1. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

2. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.

3. Add the mixed vegetables and sauté for a few minutes.
   

Step 5: Adding Spices and Tamarind Extract

1. Add the sambar powder, red chili powder, salt, and asafoetida.

2. Pour in the tamarind extract and let it cook for about 5–7 minutes.

3. Add water as needed and let the vegetables cook until they turn tender.
   

Step 6: Combining Dal and Simmering

1. Once the vegetables are cooked, add the mashed dal to the mixture.

2. Stir well and let the sambar simmer for another 5–10 minutes.

3. If desired, add a small amount of jaggery to balance the flavors.

Step 7: Garnishing and Serving

1. Turn off the heat and garnish the sambar with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

2. Serve hot with steamed rice, idli, dosa, or vada.
   

Tips for a Perfect Sambar

• Choice of Vegetables: Traditional sambar uses drumsticks, brinjal, and carrots, but you can experiment with other vegetables like pumpkin, ash gourd, and radish.

• Consistency: Adjust the amount of water to achieve your desired consistency—thicker sambar pairs well with rice, while a slightly thinner version is perfect for idli and dosa.

• Flavor Enhancement: A small piece of jaggery enhances the taste by balancing the sourness of tamarind.

• Homemade Sambar Powder: If possible, use homemade sambar powder for an authentic and fresh taste.

• Tamarind Usage: Always adjust the quantity of tamarind extract based on your preference for tanginess.

Conclusion

A sambar recipe is a wholesome and comforting dish that brings together an array of flavors and textures. With its rich combination of proteins, vitamins, and minerals, it not only satisfies the palate but also provides essential nutrients. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, following this step-by-step recipe will help you prepare a delicious bowl of sambar. Enjoy this traditional South Indian delight with your favorite accompaniments and experience the warmth of homemade comfort food!