Sambar Recipe: Easy To Make Sambar Recipe At Home

Sambar Recipe: A Delicious South Indian Dish

Introduction

Looking to spice up your culinary adventures? Look no further than the aromatic and flavorful sambar recipe, a staple dish in South Indian cuisine. Bursting with the goodness of lentils, vegetables, and a fragrant blend of spices, sambar is a delightful combination of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will help you master the art of preparing this delectable dish. So, let's dive right in and explore the secrets behind a perfect sambar recipe!
Sambar Recipe: A Flavorful Delight

Sambar, a quintessential South Indian dish, is a flavorful lentil-based stew that is traditionally made with a tangy tamarind base and a medley of vegetables. This delicious concoction is seasoned with a unique blend of spices, creating a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and satisfying. The beauty of sambar lies in its versatility, as it can be paired with a variety of dishes such as dosa, idli, vada, and rice. So, without further ado, let's get started on our sambar-making adventure!
Ingredients

To prepare a lip-smacking sambar, you will need the following ingredients:Toor dal (split pigeon peas) - 1 cup

• Tamarind - small lemon-sized ball
• Vegetables (such as drumsticks, carrots, eggplant, and pumpkin) - 1 cup
• Sambar powder - 2 tablespoons
• Turmeric powder - 1/2 teaspoon
• Asafoetida (hing) - a pinch
• Mustard seeds - 1/2 teaspoon
• Curry leaves - a sprig
• Dried red chilies - 2
• Fenugreek seeds - 1/4 teaspoon
• Cumin seeds - 1/2 teaspoon
• Coriander seeds - 1 teaspoon
• Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - to taste
• Water - as required

Instructions

Now that we have gathered our ingredients, let's dive into the step-by-step process of making sambar:

Step 1: Cooking the lentilsRinse the toor dal (split pigeon peas) thoroughly under running water.
In a pressure cooker, add the rinsed dal along with 2 cups of water, turmeric powder, and a few drops of oil.
Pressure cook the dal for about 4-5 whistles or until it turns soft and mushy.
Once cooked, set aside the dal.


Step 2: Preparing the Tamarind ExtractSoak the tamarind in warm water for 15-20 minutes.
Extract the pulp by squeezing the tamarind with your hands.
Strain the pulp to remove any seeds or fibers.


Step 3: Cooking the VegetablesChop the vegetables of your choice into bite-sized pieces.
In a separate pan, heat some oil and add mustard seeds.
Once the mustard seeds start spluttering, add dried red chilies, curry leaves, fenugreek seeds, and asafoetida.
Sauté the spices for a minute, then add the chopped vegetables.
Stir-fry the vegetables for a couple of minutes.


Step 4: Adding the Tamarind ExtractAdd the tamarind extract to the cooked vegetables.
Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes until the raw smell of tamarind disappears.


Step 5: Incorporating the LentilsMash the cooked dal with a spoon or whisk to achieve a smooth consistency.
Add the mashed dal to the pan containing the vegetables and tamarind extract.
Stir well to combine all the ingredients.


Step 6: Adding Sambar Powder and SeasoningAdd sambar powder, salt, and a little water to adjust the consistency.
Mix well and let the sambar simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.


Step 7: Tempering the SambarIn a separate pan, heat some oil and add mustard seeds.
Once the mustard seeds start spluttering, add cumin seeds and coriander seeds.
Sauté the spices for a minute and pour the tempering over the prepared sambar.


Step 8: Final TouchesGive the sambar a gentle stir and garnish it with fresh coriander leaves.
Your delicious sambar is now ready to be served!

FAQs about Sambar Recipe

1. What is the origin of sambar? 

ANS-Sambar originated in the southern regions of India, particularly in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. It has since become a popular dish across the country and is often enjoyed as a breakfast or lunch staple.


2.Can I customize the vegetables in sambar? 

ANS-Absolutely! The beauty of sambar lies in its versatility. You can add a variety of vegetables, such as drumsticks, carrots, eggplant, pumpkin, or even okra, to enhance the flavors and textures according to your preference.


3.What is sambar powder? Can I make it at home? 

ANS-Sambar powder is a blend of various spices, including coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, dried red chilies, and other aromatic ingredients. While it is readily available in stores, you can also prepare it at home by roasting the spices and grinding them to a fine powder.


4.Is sambar gluten-free? 

ANS-Yes, sambar is typically gluten-free. However, it's essential to ensure that the sambar powder and other ingredients used are free from any gluten-containing additives or cross-contamination.


5.Can sambar be made without tamarind? 

ANS-Yes, if tamarind is not readily available, you can substitute it with alternatives like raw mango, lemon juice, or even tomatoes. These ingredients provide the required tanginess to the sambar.


6.What are the health benefits of sambar? 

ANS-Sambar is not only a delicious dish but also a nutritious one. It is rich in proteins from the lentils, packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, and offers various health benefits such as aiding digestion, boosting immunity, and providing energy.

Conclusion

Sambar, with its tantalizing flavors and wholesome ingredients, is a culinary masterpiece that brings the essence of South Indian cuisine to your plate. By following this simple yet detailed recipe, you can create a restaurant-worthy sambar right in your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, get your spices ready, and embark on a flavor-packed journey with this traditional sambar recipe. Enjoy the delightful combination of lentils, vegetables, and spices that will transport you to the vibrant streets of South India!