Thandu Keerai Sambar Recipe – Amaranth Greens Sambar
Thandu Keerai Sambar is a beloved South Indian dish that combines the nutritious goodness of red amaranth leaves with the comforting flavors of tamarind and sambar powder. This tangy, mildly spiced lentil curry is a staple in many South Indian households and is perfect for a hearty dinner. The use of fresh greens and aromatic tempering makes it a wholesome and delightful meal, especially when paired with steamed rice and a side of crispy raw banana roast.
Recipe Details
| Cuisine | South Indian Recipes |
|---|---|
| Course | Dinner |
| Diet | Diabetic Friendly |
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tamarind Water | 1 cup |
| Pearl Onions (Sambar Onions), quartered | 1/2 cup |
| Red Amaranth Leaves, chopped | 2 cups |
| Sambar Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Arhar Dal (Split Toor Dal), cooked and mashed | 1 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
For Seasoning
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sesame (Gingelly) Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1 pinch |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves, roughly chopped | 5-6 leaves |
| Dry Red Chilli | 1 |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 360 mg |
| Potassium | 320 mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Lentils
- Rinse and pressure cook the Arhar Dal (Split Toor Dal) with 2 1/2 cups of water until it is very soft and well-cooked.
- Once cooked, whisk the dal with additional water if needed to achieve a thick pouring consistency. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sambar Base
- In the same pressure cooker, combine the tamarind water, chopped red amaranth leaves, quartered pearl onions, sambar powder, turmeric powder, and salt to taste.
- Add a small amount of water to the mixture and pressure cook it for 1 whistle.
- Turn off the heat and release the pressure immediately by lifting the weight with a fork or by running cold water over the lid.
Step 3: Combine the Dal and Sambar Base
- Open the pressure cooker and add the cooked dal to the sambar base.
- Adjust the consistency of the sambar by adding water as needed.
- Taste and adjust salt, ensuring the flavors are well balanced.
Step 4: Prepare the Seasoning
- Heat sesame oil in a small pan.
- Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the dry red chilli and stir for a few seconds until it is roasted.
- Add the asafoetida (hing) and curry leaves. Stir briefly, then turn off the heat.
Step 5: Final Touches
- Pour the prepared seasoning into the simmering Thandu Keerai Sambar and stir well.
- Turn off the heat and transfer the sambar to a serving bowl.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the flavorful Thandu Keerai Sambar hot with steamed rice and a side of crispy raw banana roast for a comforting and satisfying weekday dinner. This wholesome dish also pairs beautifully with papad or a light vegetable stir-fry for added texture and variety.
Enjoy the earthy and tangy flavors of this traditional South Indian favorite, perfect for a healthy and delicious meal.
