Mixed Vegetable Sambar Recipe – Tangy Lentil Curry with Vegetables
Description:
This Mixed Vegetable Sambar is a traditional South Indian dish that combines the flavors of tangy tamarind, aromatic sambar powder, and a medley of vegetables with protein-rich lentils. Made in a single pot, this easy and quick recipe is a staple in South Indian households. The key to making an authentic sambar lies in the homemade sambar powder, which varies from region to region and from family to family. The recipe includes a variety of mixed vegetables and a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and dry red chilies, making it a satisfying and wholesome dish. Whether served with steamed rice, dosa, or idli, this sambar is sure to be a hit at any meal.
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Sambar:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arhar dal (Split Toor Dal) | 1 cup (cooked in 2 cups water, whisked and mashed) |
| Tamarind Water | 1 cup |
| Pearl onions (Sambar Onions) | 1 cup, peeled |
| Mooli (Radish) | 1, peeled and diced |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1, diced |
| Carrot (Gajjar) | 1, diced |
| Tomatoes | 2, quartered |
| Sambar Powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
For the Seasoning:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sesame (Gingelly) Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/ Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Dry Red Chillies | 3 |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 6 leaves |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 2 sprigs, chopped |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Instructions
-
Cook the Dal:
- In a pressure cooker, add 1 cup of Arhar dal (split toor dal) along with 2 cups of water. Close the lid and cook for 3 to 4 whistles, then turn off the heat. Allow the pressure to release naturally.
- Once the pressure has completely released, open the cooker and whisk the dal to make it smooth. Set aside.
-
Prepare the Vegetables:
- To the same pressure cooker, add the tamarind water, sambar powder, pearl onions, radish, capsicum, carrot, tomatoes, and salt to taste. Stir everything well.
- Close the lid, place the weight on, and cook for 2 whistles. After the whistles, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally.
-
Combine Dal and Vegetables:
- Once the pressure has released, open the cooker and stir in the cooked dal with the vegetables. Mix until everything is well combined and the sambar is smooth.
-
Prepare the Seasoning:
- Heat 1 teaspoon of sesame oil in a small pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and dry red chilies. Roast them until lightly browned.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of asafoetida (hing) and stir it into the seasoning. Turn off the heat and set the seasoning aside.
-
Final Steps:
- Add the prepared seasoning to the vegetable dal mixture and stir well. Turn the heat on high and bring the sambar to a boil. Let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together.
- Once the sambar has boiled, stir in the chopped coriander leaves. Turn off the heat.
-
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Mixed Vegetable Sambar hot with steamed rice for a hearty meal. For a more traditional touch, pair it with a side of Beetroot Thoran (a vegetable stir-fry) or enjoy it with crispy dosa or idli for breakfast.
Tips for Best Results:
- For an extra flavorful sambar, make your own homemade sambar powder. The recipe can be adjusted based on your preferred level of spice.
- You can add other vegetables like pumpkin, beans, or okra to enhance the flavor and texture of the sambar.
- If you prefer a thicker sambar, reduce the amount of water slightly or let it simmer for a longer time.
- For a richer flavor, you can add a spoonful of ghee (clarified butter) to the sambar before serving.
This Mixed Vegetable Sambar is the perfect dish to brighten up any meal, bringing comfort and a burst of flavor to your plate. Whether you’re new to South Indian cuisine or a seasoned fan, this recipe will become a household favorite in no time!
