Introduction:
South Indian Veg Sambhar or Sambar Recipe
Sambhar or Sambar Recipe: Sambar, a piquant lentil soup infused with a blend of mixed vegetables, stands as an essential accompaniment for popular South Indian breakfast and lunch dishes such as Idli, Dosa, Medu Vada, and Steamed Rice. Known as Sambaru in Karnataka, Kuzhambu in Tamil Nadu, and Sambhar or Sambar Recipe in North India due to regional dialects, its preparation remains consistent. This flavorful dish involves cooking steamed/boiled vegetables and lentils with sautéed tomato-onion mix and a spicy blend of tamarind, Sambar Masala Powder, and various spices. This recipe guides you through preparing the simple and traditional Vegetable Sambhar or Sambar Recipe with step-by-step photos and offers tips for customization to suit your taste.
Ingredients
of Sambhar Recipe
- 1/3 cup Toor Dal (split pigeon peas)
- 1/4 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
- 1 cup chopped Mixed Vegetables
- 1/2 teaspoon Mustard Seeds
- 5-6 Curry Leaves
- 1-2 Dry Red Chillies
- A pinch of Asafoetida
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped (approx. 1/3 cup)
- 1 tablespoon Sambar Powder
- 1/2 tablespoon Seedless Tamarind
- 1 Tomato, finely chopped (approx. 1/3 cup)
- 1 tablespoon Oil
- 1 cup + 1½ cups Water
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped Coriander Leaves
- Salt to taste
Note:
You can use mixed vegetables like Cauliflower, Drumsticks, Capsicum, Radish, Potato, Brinjal, Carrot, French Beans, Okra, etc., using a maximum of 3 to 5 varieties. This ensures the Sambar maintains its slurpy texture without becoming too thick.
Directions:
South Indian Sambhar recipe
Prepare Tamarind Juice:
- Soak 1/2 tablespoon tamarind in 3 tablespoons of hot water for 10-15 minutes. Mash it with a spoon, strain using a sieve, and discard the solids.
Cook Lentils and Vegetables:
- In a 3-4 liters capacity pressure cooker, combine toor dal, turmeric powder, and 1 cup water. Place mixed vegetables in a small container, put it inside the pressure cooker, and cook over medium flame for 3-4 whistles.
- Allow pressure to come down naturally, open the lid, remove the container of vegetables, and mash the dal.
Prepare Seasoning:
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds, curry leaves, dry red chilies, asafoetida, and sauté for 10-15 seconds.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until transparent. Add tamarind juice and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add chopped tomatoes and sauté until soft. Add Sambar Powder, stir, and cook for a minute.
Combine and Boil:
- Add cooked and mashed dal, boiled vegetables, 1½ cups water, and salt.
- Mix well and boil until it turns frothy (approximately 5-7 minutes).
Finish and Serve:
- Turn off the flame, transfer the Sambar into a serving bowl, and garnish with finely chopped coriander leaves.
Tips and Variations:
Sambhar recipe
- Use any good brand of store-bought or Homemade Sambar Masala Powder for optimal flavor.
- If preparing in large quantities, cook vegetables separately in a pressure cooker to expedite the process.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder to increase spiciness.
Taste: Hot and spicy with a mild tanginess.
Serving Ideas: Serve as an accompaniment with Idli, Vada, Dosa, and Kara Pongal in a South Indian Meal or enjoy it as a soup. Pair with steamed rice for a delightful traditional meal.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Sambhar or Sambar Recipe emerges as a versatile and flavorful South Indian culinary creation, seamlessly complementing a variety of meals with its harmonious blend of lentils, vegetables, and spices. Whether enjoyed as an accompaniment or relished as a standalone soup, Sambar delivers a delightful equilibrium of spiciness and tanginess. Whether adhering to the traditional recipe or incorporating personalized nuances, these FAQs offer valuable insights to tailor your Sambar experience. Embrace the adaptability of Sambar and savor this timeless South Indian dish in a manner that resonates with your unique culinary preferences.
FAQs
What assortment of vegetables is recommended for Sambar?
A diverse selection of vegetables, including cauliflower, drumsticks, capsicum, radish, potato, brinjal, carrot, French beans, and okra, works well. To maintain an ideal texture, it is advised to limit the variety to 3 to 5 options.
Can store-bought Sambar Masala Powder be utilized?
Certainly, opting for a high-quality store-bought or homemade Sambar Masala Powder is suitable. The ultimate taste of Sambhar or Sambar Recipe is notably influenced by the caliber and fragrance of the chosen masala.
Is there an alternative method for vegetable preparation, aside from pressure cooking?
Yes, an alternative to pressure cooking involves simmering the vegetables in 1/2-1 cup of water in a vessel over a low-medium flame until they achieve tenderness. Retain the cooking water and incorporate it along with the vegetables in the final steps.
How can the spiciness of Sambar be heightened?
For an added kick, introduce 1/2 teaspoon of red chili powder alongside the Sambar Powder during the cooking process.
Can Sambhar or Sambar Recipe be made in advance for convenience?
Indeed, Sambar can be prepared in advance and stored. Its flavors tend to mature and intensify over time. Prior to serving, reheat and, if necessary, adjust the consistency with water.
