Jul 14 2026

Sambar Recipe

Time45m
Serves4

stew of lentils, okra, potato, carrot

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Ingredients

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Lentils and Vegetables

Spices and Seasoning

Liquid

Method

Preparation of Lentils

  1. 1

    Rinse and Cook Lentils

    Rinse 1 cup of toor dal under running water until the water runs clear. In a pressure cooker, add the rinsed dal and 3 cups of water, along with 1 tsp of turmeric powder. Cook for about 3-4 whistles and then turn off the heat. Let the pressure release naturally.

Vegetable Preparation

  1. 2

    Chop Vegetables

    While the lentils are cooking, wash and chop 200 grams of okra into 1-inch pieces. Peel and dice 1 medium potato and 1 medium carrot into small cubes.

Cooking Sambar

  1. 3

    Combine Ingredients

    Once the pressure is released from the cooker, open the lid and mash the cooked lentils slightly. In a pot, add the mashed lentils, chopped okra, potato, carrot, 1 tbs of sambar powder, and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil.

  2. 4

    Simmer the Stew

    Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally and add salt to taste.

Tempering

  1. 5

    Prepare Tempering

    In a small pan, heat 1 tbs of oil over medium heat. Add 1 tsp of mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add curry leaves and a pinch of asafoetida. Fry for a few seconds.

  2. 6

    Add to Stew

    Pour the tempering over the simmered sambar and stir well to combine.

Garnishing

  1. 7

    Finish with Coriander

    Garnish the sambar with 2 tbs of chopped fresh coriander leaves before serving.

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