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• منشور من طرف : Ayur Healthcare cloud
• نشر على : Mar 28, 2025
• الآراء : 44
• الفئة : جنرال لواء
• وصف : Sambar is one of the most beloved and iconic dishes of South Indian cuisine. This flavorful, tangy, and spicy lentil-based stew is packed with vegetables, aromatic spices, and tamarind, making it a perfect accompaniment to rice, idli, dosa, or vada.

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• Introduction

  Sambar is one of the most beloved and iconic dishes of South Indian cuisine. This flavorful, tangy, and spicy lentil-based stew is packed with vegetables, aromatic spices, and tamarind, making it a perfect accompaniment to rice, idli, dosa, or vada. Originating from Tamil Nadu sambar recipe has become a staple in many Indian households, each region adding its unique twist to the recipe. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this guide will help you prepare an authentic and delicious sambar at home.

  Ingredients

  Before starting, gather the following ingredients:

  For the Lentils:

  • 1 cup toor dal (pigeon peas)

  • 3 cups water

  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder

  • 1 teaspoon oil

  For the Tamarind Extract:

  • 1 lemon-sized tamarind ball

  • 1 cup warm water

  Vegetables (Choose any combination):

  • ½ cup diced carrots

  • ½ cup chopped beans

  • ½ cup drumsticks (cut into 2-inch pieces)

  • ½ cup diced bottle gourd

  • 1 small brinjal (eggplant), chopped

  • 1 tomato, diced

  • 1 small onion, sliced

  For the Sambar Masala:

  • 2 tablespoons sambar powder (store-bought or homemade)

  • ½ teaspoon red chili powder (optional, for extra spice)

  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder

  • Salt to taste

  For the Tempering (Tadka):

  • 2 tablespoons oil or ghee

  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

  • 1 dried red chili

  • 10-12 curry leaves

  • ½ teaspoon asafoetida (hing)

  
  

  Preparation Steps
  
  

  1. Cooking the Lentils

  • Wash the toor dal thoroughly and soak it for 15 minutes.

  • In a pressure cooker, add the dal, 3 cups of water, turmeric powder, and a teaspoon of oil.

  • Cook for 3-4 whistles or until the dal becomes soft and mushy.

  • Mash the cooked dal and set it aside.

  
  

  2. Preparing the Tamarind Extract

  • Soak the tamarind in warm water for 10-15 minutes.

  • Squeeze and strain the pulp to get the tamarind extract. Discard the seeds and fibers.

  
  

  3. Cooking the Vegetables

  • In a deep pan, add the chopped vegetables along with 2 cups of water.

  • Add salt and turmeric powder.

  • Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes until the vegetables turn soft.

  
  

  4. Adding Spices and Dal

  • Once the vegetables are cooked, add the sambar powder, red chili powder, and mashed dal.

  • Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

  • Add the tamarind extract and mix thoroughly.

  • Let the sambar simmer for another 10 minutes on a low flame until the flavors blend together.

  
  

  5. Preparing the Tempering (Tadka)

  • In a small pan, heat oil or ghee.

  • Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.

  • Add cumin seeds, dried red chili, curry leaves, and asafoetida.

  • Sauté for a few seconds and then pour the tempering over the simmering sambar.

  • Mix well and turn off the heat.

  
  

  Serving Suggestions

  Sambar is best enjoyed with:

  • Steamed Rice – A classic South Indian meal with a side of papad and pickle.

  • Idli or Dosa – A popular breakfast option that pairs perfectly with coconut chutney.

  • Medu Vada – Crispy lentil fritters soaked in sambar make a delicious snack.

  
  

  Tips for the Perfect Sambar

  • Use Fresh Spices: Homemade sambar powder enhances the flavor significantly.

  • Balance the Tamarind: Too much tamarind can make the sambar too tangy, so adjust according to taste.

  • Consistency Matters: Sambar should be neither too thick nor too watery. Adjust the water as needed.

  • Tempering at the End: Adding tempering at the final stage enhances the aroma and taste.

  
  

  Conclusion

  A sambar recipe is not just a dish; it is an emotion for South Indians. The combination of lentils, vegetables, and spices creates a comforting and wholesome meal. Whether you enjoy it with rice or as a side for your favorite South Indian breakfast, this traditional recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Try making this flavorful sambar at home and enjoy a taste of authentic South Indian cuisine!