Dal Sambar (South India)
Dal Sambar is a traditional South Indian lentil-based stew made with toor dal, mixed vegetables, tamarind, and aromatic sambar powder. Known for its tangy, mildly spicy flavor and rich aroma, sambar is a staple in South Indian cuisine. It is commonly served with steamed rice, idli, dosa, vada, or uttapam, making it a wholesome, nutritious, and comforting meal enjoyed across India.
Cooking Method
- Wash and pressure cook toor dal with turmeric until soft, then mash it well.
- Cook mixed vegetables such as drumsticks, carrots, pumpkin, and eggplant until tender.
- Add tamarind pulp and sambar powder to the vegetables and simmer for a few minutes.
- Stir in the cooked dal and add water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Simmer for 10–15 minutes so the flavors blend well.
- Prepare a tempering by heating oil or ghee with mustard seeds, dried red chilies, curry leaves, and asafoetida.
- Pour the tempering over the sambar, garnish with fresh coriander leaves, and serve hot.
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