Authentic South Indian Sambar Recipe

Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes

Description: A savory and flavorful South Indian dish made with lentils, vegetables, tamarind, and spices. Perfect to pair with rice or dosa!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup Toor Dal (yellow lentils)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1/4 cup drumstick (optional)
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tbsp sambar powder
• 1 tbsp tamarind paste
• Salt to taste
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
• Few curry leaves
• 2-3 dried red chilies

Instructions:

1. Wash the toor dal thoroughly and cook it in a pressure cooker with 3 cups of water for 3-4 whistles or until soft.
2. Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds. Once they splutter, add cumin seeds, curry leaves, and dried red chilies.
3. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
4. Add chopped tomatoes, carrots, and drumsticks (if using). Sauté for a few minutes.
5. Add turmeric powder, sambar powder, and salt. Stir well.
6. Add the cooked toor dal to the pan, along with tamarind paste and enough water to reach your desired consistency. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot with rice or dosa.