The Delicious South Indian Style Sambhar Recipe for Idli & Dosa

South Indian Style Sambhar Recipe

Ingredients:

- 1 cup toor dal (pigeon peas)

- 1 medium onion, chopped

- 1 medium tomato, chopped

- 1-2 green chilies, slit

- 1-2 medium carrots, chopped

- 1 small potato, cubed

- 1/2 cup drumsticks (or other veggies like squash, beans, etc.)

- 1 tablespoon sambhar powder

- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 tablespoon tamarind paste (or to taste)

- 2-3 cups water

- Salt, to taste

- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish

For Tempering:

- 2 tablespoons oil (preferably coconut or vegetable oil)

- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1-2 dried red chilies

- A pinch of asafetida (Hing)

- A few curry leaves

Instructions:

1. Cook the Dal:

   - Rinse the toor dal thoroughly and cook it in a pressure cooker with 2 cups of water for about 3-4 whistles or until soft. Once cooked, mash it gently and set aside.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

   - In a large pot, heat a bit of oil and add chopped onions. Sauté until they become translucent.

   - Add chopped tomatoes and green chilies; cook until the tomatoes are soft.

   - Stir in the chopped vegetables (carrots, potatoes, drumsticks, etc.) and sauté for a few minutes.

Also Read: The Authentic South Indian Dosa Recipe

3. Combine:

   - Add the turmeric powder and sambhar powder, stirring well to coat the vegetables.

   - Pour in the cooked toor dal and additional water to achieve the desired consistency. Mix well.

4. Tamarind and Seasoning:

   - Add tamarind paste and salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Temper the Sambhar:

   - In a small pan, heat oil for tempering. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.

   - Add cumin seeds, dried red chilies, asafetida, and curry leaves. Sauté briefly until fragrant.

   - Pour the tempering over the simmering sambhar.

6. Garnish and Serve:

   - Once done, check the seasoning and adjust salt or tamarind as needed. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

   - Serve hot with steamed rice, dosa, or idli.

Enjoy your delicious homemade sambhar!