Sambhar Daal Masala

South Indian food is widely popular across every part of India. From dosa, idli, vada, uttapam, rasam to so on, south Indian food has a different fan base. But, one thing that is common in this style of cuisine is Sambar. It is one of the most popular traditional dishes that are not only nutritious and healthy but also tastes mouthwatering. You can even buy authentic Sambar Daal Masala online to enjoy its real taste at home. Basically, it is a mix of vegetable stew and south Indian style based lentil that is eaten along with the meal as a side dish or even with breakfast.

Making Sambar Daal

Clean and wash the Sambhar daal well. Add washed and strained dal in pressure cooker along with 2 cups of water and pressure cook until done.

Once dal is done, mash it and set it aside.

1. In another pot, heat oil. Add mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds fry until just aromatic. Ensure not to burn the seeds.
2. Add curry leaves and dried red chillies and fry for few seconds. Then, add hing (asafoetida) and mix.
3.  Add sambar onions (pearl onions/shallots) and sauté on high for a minute or 2 until soft.
4.  Add all the vegetables ( brinjal, radish, pumpkin, drumsticks) and mix. Sauté on high for a minute. Add chopped tomatoes and sauté on high for another 2-3minutes.
5.  Add turmeric powder, red chilli powder, Sambhar Daal Masala and mix. Sauté on medium heat for a minute. Take care not to burn the masalas.
6.  Add boiled and mashed dal and salt, mix . Add tamarind pulp, chopped coriander leaves and water. The amount of water depends upon the consistency of sambar you need.
7.  Mix everything and simmer until vegetables are cooked through but intact. I simmer it for good 8-10 minutes to bring out the flavours to the fullest.
8. Dish out and serve hot sambar with steaming hot idli or vada or steamed rice.