Recipiyo’s Flavorful Sambar Recipe: A Taste of South Indian Comfort
Welcome to Recipiyo, where we unravel the art of creating the perfect South Indian Sambar. Immerse yourself in the rich blend of spices, tangy tamarind, and wholesome vegetables, making this traditional dish a delightful experience for your taste buds.
Ingredients:
For Sambar Masala:
● 1 tablespoon oil
● 1/2 cup split pigeon peas (toor dal)
● 2 tablespoons coriander seeds
● 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
● 1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
● 4-5 dried red chilies
● 1/2 cup grated coconut (fresh or desiccated)
For Sambar:
● 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, drumsticks, pumpkin)
● 1 small eggplant, diced
● 1/2 cup tamarind extract
● 1 large tomato, chopped
● 1 onion, finely chopped
● 2 green chilies, slit
● A handful of curry leaves
● 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
● 1 tablespoon sambar powder
● Salt to taste
For Tempering:
● 2 tablespoons oil
● 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
● 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
● 2-3 dried red chilies
● A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
For Garnish:
● Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. Prepare Sambar Masala:
● Heat oil in a pan. Add pigeon peas, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, dried red chilies, and grated coconut. Roast until aromatic. Grind into a smooth paste.
2. Cook Toor Dal:
● Pressure-cook toor dal until soft and mushy. Set aside.
3. Cook Vegetables:
● Boil mixed vegetables, eggplant, and tomato in a pot with turmeric powder until tender.
4. Combine Ingredients:
● Mix the cooked dal, boiled vegetables, tamarind extract, chopped onion, slit green chilies, curry leaves, and sambar masala. Bring to a gentle boil.
5. Add Sambar Powder:
● Stir in sambar powder and salt. Simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Prepare Tempering:
● In a separate pan, heat oil for tempering. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, dried red chilies, and asafoetida. Once they splutter, pour over the sambar.
7. Garnish and Serve:
● Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with steamed rice, idli, dosa, or vada.
Tips:
● Customize vegetables based on preference.
● Adjust tamarind extract for desired tanginess.
● Explore variations with sambar masala ingredients for a personal touch.
Savor the essence of South Indian cuisine with Recipiyo’s Sambar Recipe – a culinary journey that brings warmth and flavor to your table.
Sambar Recipe FAQs
Q1: What is Sambar?
A1: Sambar is a South Indian lentil-based stew with vegetables, tamarind, and a blend of spices.
Q2: Can I use store-bought sambar powder?
A2: Yes, you can use store-bought sambar powder if you prefer a quicker preparation.
Q3: Which vegetables are best for sambar?
A3: Ideal vegetables include carrots, beans, drumsticks, pumpkin, and eggplant, but you can customize based on preference.
Q4: How do I adjust the spiciness of sambar?
A4: Control spiciness by adjusting the quantity of green chilies or red chili powder in the sambar masala.
Q5: Can I make sambar without tamarind?
A5: Tamarind provides the characteristic tanginess, but you can use alternatives like tomatoes or kokum for a milder flavor.
Q6: Can I prepare sambar without coconut?
A6: While coconut enhances flavor, you can omit it for a lighter version of sambar.
Q7: Can I use pre-cooked or canned dal?
A7: While freshly cooked toor dal is recommended, you can use pre-cooked or canned dal for convenience.
Q8: What should I serve sambar with?
A8: Sambar pairs well with steamed rice, idli, dosa, vada, or even as a side dish for meals.
Q9: Can I freeze leftover sambar?
A9: Yes, you can freeze leftover sambar in airtight containers. Thaw and reheat as needed.
Q10: How long does sambar stay fresh in the refrigerator?
A10: Sambar stays fresh for 2-3 days when refrigerated. Reheat before serving.
Q11: Can I make sambar in advance for a party?
A11: Yes, sambar flavors enhance over time. Make it a day ahead and reheat before serving.
Q12: Can I use ghee for tempering instead of oil?
A12: Certainly! Ghee adds a rich flavor to the tempering process.
Q13: How do I avoid lumps while grinding the sambar masala?
A13: Ensure the roasted ingredients are cool before grinding, and add water gradually for a smooth paste.
Q14: Is sambar gluten-free?
A14: Yes, sambar is gluten-free when prepared with gluten-free asafoetida.