Sambar Recipe: A Delicious South Indian Stew
South Indian cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and aromatic spices, and sambar is a quintessential example. This lentil-based vegetable stew is a staple in many South Indian homes, served with rice, idli, dosa, or vada. This recipe provides a delicious and authentic sambar experience.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This sambar recipe uses readily available ingredients. Adjust quantities based on your preference and the number of servings.
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For the Sambar Powder:
- 1 tbsp toor dal (split pigeon peas)
- 1 tbsp chana dal (split chickpeas)
- 1 tsp coriander seeds
- ½ tsp cumin seeds
- ½ tsp mustard seeds
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1-2 red chilies (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2-3 curry leaves
- ½ tsp fenugreek seeds (methi)
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
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For the Sambar:
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp urad dal (split black lentils)
- 1-2 dried red chilies, broken
- A sprig of curry leaves
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium tomato, finely chopped
- 1 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas)
- 4 cups water
- 2-3 tbsp sambar powder (made above)
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., drumsticks, eggplant, okra, carrots) - optional but recommended for a complete sambar experience.
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
This recipe breaks down the sambar-making process into simple, easy-to-follow steps.
1. Preparing the Sambar Powder:
- Dry roast all the sambar powder ingredients in a pan over medium heat until fragrant and slightly browned. Be careful not to burn them.
- Allow the mixture to cool completely, then grind into a fine powder using a blender or spice grinder. Store in an airtight container.
2. Making the Sambar:
- Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add urad dal and red chilies; sauté until the dal turns light golden.
- Add curry leaves and sauté briefly.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add the chopped tomato and cook until softened.
- Add the toor dal and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes (or pressure cook for 3-4 whistles).
- Add the sambar powder and salt. Stir well and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add the mixed vegetables (if using) and continue to simmer until the vegetables are tender.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice, idli, dosa, or vada.
Tips for the Best Sambar:
- Adjust the spice level: Add more or fewer chilies based on your preference.
- Use fresh ingredients: This significantly enhances the flavor of the sambar.
- Don't overcook the vegetables: Overcooked vegetables can become mushy, so cook them just until tender.
- Experiment with vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the sambar. Some popular additions include drumsticks, okra, ash gourd, and ridge gourd.
This recipe provides a foundation for your sambar journey. Feel free to experiment and adjust to create your own perfect version of this classic South Indian dish. Enjoy!
