Sambar
Sambar is a traditional South Indian dish made with lentils and vegetables, seasoned with a blend of spices. It is often served with rice or dosa, making it a hearty and nutritious meal.
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
Rinse the toor dal thoroughly under running water and soak it in water for about 30 minutes.
- 2
In a pressure cooker, add the soaked toor dal with 3 cups of water and turmeric powder. Cook until the dal is soft, about 3-4 whistles.
- 3
In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and wait for them to splutter.
- 4
Add the chopped onion and sauté until they turn translucent, then stir in the chopped tomato and mixed vegetables. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften.
- 5
Add the cooked dal into the pot with vegetables. Stir in the sambar powder and tamarind paste, then add salt to taste. Mix well and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- 6
If using, add fresh curry leaves just before serving for added aroma.
- 7
Before serving, check that the finished dish includes rice so the recipe matches the ingredient list.
Cook notes
Tips
For a thicker sambar, reduce the amount of water used.
Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store leftover sambar in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little water if it has thickened.
Substitutions
- Instead of toor dal, you can use chana dal for a different flavor.
- Tamarind paste can be swapped with lemon juice for a tangy twist.
What to Serve With
- Steamed basmati rice
- Idlis
- Dosas
Common Mistakes
- Not soaking the dal long enough, making it hard to cook properly.
- Adding too much tamarind paste can overpower the dish; start with less and adjust to taste.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use a different type of dal?
You can substitute toor dal with split pigeon peas or even moong dal, but the flavor and texture may slightly differ.
How can I make it spicier?
To increase the spiciness, add more sambar powder or a diced green chili while cooking.
What can I serve with Sambar?
Sambar is best served with steamed rice, idlis, or dosas.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Rice cooker
Good for steady rice, grains, and meal-prep bowls.
Saucepan
Useful for simmering sauces, soups, grains, and small-batch stews.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
Measuring spoons
Useful for balancing spices, salt, acids, and sauces.
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