How to Make Authentic South Indian Sambar at Home

Sambar is one of the most popular South Indian dishes, loved for its rich flavor, nutritious ingredients, and comforting taste. Made with lentils, vegetables, tamarind, and aromatic spices, sambar pairs perfectly with steamed rice, idli, dosa, vada, or even upma. The best part is that it's easy to prepare at home using everyday ingredients. Here's a step-by-step guide to making delicious homemade sambar.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the sambar, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas)
• 2-3 cups mixed vegetables (drumsticks, carrots, pumpkin, brinjal, radish, and beans)
• 1 small onion or shallots
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• A small lemon-sized ball of tamarind
• 2-3 tablespoons sambar powder
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

For Tempering

• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds (optional)
• 2 dried red chilies
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• 8-10 curry leaves

Step 1: Cook the Toor Dal

Wash the toor dal thoroughly and pressure cook it with turmeric powder and about three cups of water until soft. Mash the cooked dal well and keep it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Tamarind Extract

Soak the tamarind in warm water for 15-20 minutes. Squeeze out the pulp and strain the extract to remove any fibers or seeds.