Sambar: A South Indian Flavorful Stew

Sambar is a versatile South Indian lentil stew that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. It’s typically made with a combination of lentils, vegetables, and spices.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup toor dal (pigeon pea lentil)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 large tomato, chopped
• 1 teaspoon sambar powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/4 teaspoon tamarind paste
• 1 cup water
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
• Mixed vegetables (like drumstick, okra, carrots, or pumpkin)

Instructions:

1. Cook the lentils: Rinse the toor dal and cook it in a pressure cooker or saucepan until tender.
2. Sauté the spices: Heat the oil or ghee in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle. Then, add sambar powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Sauté for a few seconds.
3. Add vegetables: Add the chopped onion and tomato and cook until softened.
4. Combine ingredients: Add the cooked lentils, tamarind paste, water, and salt to the pan. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have blended.
6. Add vegetables: Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
7. Adjust taste: Taste the sambar and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Tips:

• For a thicker sambar, add a little more toor dal or use a thickener like sago.
• You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less red chili powder.
• For a richer flavor, add a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and dried red chilies.
• Serve the sambar hot with rice or idli.

Would you like to know how to make coconut chutney to accompany the sambar?