Jul 09 2026
RestaurantsMasala CafeIdly With Samba Sauce Recipe

Idly With Samba Sauce Recipe

Inspired by Masala Cafe
Time2h
Serves4

Make Idly With Samba Sauce Recipe in just 2h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Idly Ingredients

Samba Sauce Ingredients

Method

Idly Preparation

  1. 1

    Soak Ingredients

    In a large bowl, soak idly rice and split urad dal with fenugreek seeds in enough water for 6-8 hours or overnight.

  2. 2

    Grind the Batter

    After soaking, drain the water and transfer the rice and dal mixture to a blender. Add about 1 cup of water and blend to a smooth batter. The consistency should be thick but pourable.

  3. 3

    Ferment the Batter

    Pour the batter into a large container, cover it, and let it ferment in a warm place for 8-12 hours until it doubles in size and is bubbly.

  4. 4

    Prepare for Steaming

    Once fermented, add salt and mix well. Grease idly molds with a little oil.

  5. 5

    Steam Idlies

    Fill each mold with the batter and place them in a steamer. Steam for 10-15 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

  6. 6

    Serve Idlies

    Remove the idlies from the molds and serve warm with samba sauce.

Samba Sauce Preparation

  1. 7

    Chop Ingredients

    Finely chop the tomatoes, onion, green chilies, ginger, and garlic.

  2. 8

    Cook the Base

    In a pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.

  3. 9

    Sauté Aromatics

    Add chopped onions, ginger, garlic, and green chilies to the pan. Sauté until the onions become translucent.

  4. 10

    Add Tomatoes and Spices

    Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt to taste. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and mushy.

  5. 11

    Add Curry Leaves

    Finally, add curry leaves and stir well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

  6. 12

    Serve with Idlies

    Remove from heat and serve the samba sauce hot alongside the idlies.

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