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Sambar

Name: Sambar
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 cup toor dal (pigeon peas); 1/2 cup tamarind pulp; 1 onion, chopped; 1 tomato, chopped; 1 carrot, sliced; 2 tbsp sambar powder; 1/2 tsp mustard seeds; 1/2 tsp turmeric; 2 tbsp oil; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

This aromatic South Indian stew balances tangy tamarind and earthy toor dal with warming spices and fresh vegetables for a deeply satisfying bowl. The mustard seeds pop in hot oil to release their nutty flavor, while sambar powder brings complex heat that ties everything together. A weeknight staple that's equally at home on the dinner table or at festive celebrations.

Prep

15 minutes

Cook

35 minutes

Total

50 minutes

Serves

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Ingredients

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Instructions

1
Boil toor dal in water until soft, then mash it well and set aside.
2
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
3
Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
4
Add carrots and tomatoes, and sauté briefly for 2-3 minutes.
5
Stir in tamarind pulp, sambar powder, turmeric, and salt.
6
Mix in the cooked and mashed dal, adding water as needed to reach desired consistency.
7
Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8
Serve hot with rice, idli, or dosa, garnished with fresh cilantro.