Coimbatore Style Drumstick Sambar Recipe
Experience the authentic flavors of Tamil Nadu with this delightful Coimbatore-style Drumstick Sambar recipe. A symphony of tangy tamarind, aromatic spices, and the unique flavor of drumsticks come together to create this comforting South Indian delicacy. Serve it as a side dish with steamed rice for a wholesome meal or enjoy it as a standalone dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion, chopped | 1 |
| Drumstick, chopped into 2-inch pieces | 1 |
| Tomato | 1 |
| Arhar dal (Split Toor Dal), soaked for 10 minutes and cooked | 1 cup |
| Curry leaves | 2 sprigs |
| Coriander (Dhania) seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Fenugreek (Methi) seeds | 1/4 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Tamarind paste | 1 tablespoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dry red chilies, soaked | 4 |
| Fresh coconut, grated | 1/4 cup |
| Mustard seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Gingelly oil (Sesame oil) | For tempering |
| Ghee | 2 teaspoons |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Soak the arhar dal in water for about 15–20 minutes.
- After soaking, drain the water and transfer the dal to a pressure cooker with 2 cups of water. Cook for 4 whistles and let the pressure release naturally.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- In a saucepan, combine drumsticks, onions, and tomatoes with enough water. Cook over high heat for about 10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Set aside.
- Save a portion of the vegetable stock for grinding the spice mix.
Step 3: Prepare the Masala
- Heat a heavy-bottomed pan and add a tablespoon of gingelly oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds, coriander seeds, fenugreek seeds, asafoetida, dry red chilies, and grated coconut. Roast on medium heat for about a minute or until fragrant.
- Remove the roasted ingredients from the heat and let them cool to room temperature. For faster cooling, spread them on a plate.
- Grind the roasted ingredients in a mixer grinder with a little water or vegetable stock until a smooth paste forms.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
- Add the ground masala to the saucepan with the cooked vegetables.
- Stir in the tamarind paste and cooked dal.
- Add water to achieve your desired sambar consistency. Season with salt.
Step 5: Boil the Sambar
- Bring the sambar to a boil and simmer for about 5–7 minutes.
Step 6: Prepare the Tadka
- Heat a small kadai (pan) with a bit of gingelly oil.
- Add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter. Toss in the curry leaves and sauté for a few seconds.
Step 7: Final Touches
- Pour the tadka over the boiled sambar.
- Top with ghee for a rich and aromatic finish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Coimbatore Style Drumstick Sambar hot with steamed rice and a side of Capsicum Usili for a complete and satisfying meal. This dish also pairs wonderfully with dosas, idlis, or even plain chapatis.
Tips and Variations
- Adjust the spice level: Increase or decrease the number of red chilies and chili powder as per your taste preference.
- Add vegetables: You can add other vegetables like carrots, beans, or radish to make the sambar heartier.
- Stock enhancement: Use the reserved vegetable stock for grinding the masala for a deeper flavor profile.
This Coimbatore-style Drumstick Sambar is a perfect blend of tangy, spicy, and earthy flavors, ideal for a weekday lunch or a festive feast. Enjoy the taste of Tamil Nadu right at your dining table!
