Sambar (Lentil based vegetable stew)

Is Sambar the Ultimate Comfort Food? Exploring the Flavors and Benefits of this Lentil-Based Vegetable Stew

Sambar is a flavor explosion, blending tangy tamarind, earthy lentils, and spicy sambar spices into a rich, comforting South Indian delight.

Sambar, a cherished South Indian dish, stands out for its healthful blend of protein-rich lentils and a medley of vegetables, all seasoned with aromatic sambar powder. This not only makes it nutritious but irresistibly tasty as well. Whether you're using an Instant Pot or a traditional pressure cooker, this Mixed Vegetable Sambar recipe offers a spicy, tangy, and satisfying stew brimming with vegetables.

I'm excited to show you how to whip up this simple sambar recipe, perfect for a cozy, nutritious, and protein-filled meal. I'll guide you through making it in both a traditional pressure cooker, complete with rice for a convenient, weeknight feast.

Sambar (Lentil based Vegetable Stew)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils and split peas

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil or avocado oil

• 1 pinch hing asafetida

• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds

• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder

• 2-3 tablespoon sambar powder

• 5-8 curry leaves

• 1 medium red onion diced

• ½ inch ginger minced

• 7-8 garlic cloves minced

• 1 cup chopped tomatoes

• 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste

• 3 cups water

• 1-2 large carrots cut in ½ inch pieces

• 1 russet potato and cut in 1/2 inch pieces

• 1-2 drumsticks, skin removed (4 inches wide)

• 1 tsp tamarind concentrate (adjust to taste)

Directions:

1. Wash the lentils until the water becomes clear.

2. Place the washed lentils in a pressure cooker with 3 cups of water, adding potatoes, carrots, and a bit of turmeric powder.

3. Let the lentils and vegetables cook under pressure while you get the other ingredients ready.

4. Heat oil in a pan for 30 seconds, then add mustard and fennel seeds, followed by a pinch of hing.

5. Once the mustard and fennel seeds start to pop, add curry leaves, onion, ginger, and garlic.

6. Cook for 3 minutes, or until the onions begin to soften. Incorporate drumsticks and chopped tomatoes, along with salt, turmeric, and sambar powder.

7. Cook for another 2 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.

8. Once the pressure has released, mix in the cooked lentils and vegetables.

9. Adjust the salt as needed.

10. Blend in tamarind concentrate and adjust seasonings to taste.

11. Serve the delicious mixture alongside Basmati rice.

Tip: For the best flavor, let your sambar simmer a little longer after combining all the ingredients. This allows the spices and vegetables to meld beautifully, enhancing the depth and richness of the dish