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A fragrant South Indian lentil stew featuring tender drumsticks simmered in a tangy tamarind broth with aromatic spices. This wholesome and flavorful dish is a perfect companion for rice, idli, or dosa.
For 4 servings
Pressure Cook the Dal
Cook the Vegetables
Combine and Simmer
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A fragrant South Indian lentil stew featuring tender drumsticks simmered in a tangy tamarind broth with aromatic spices. This wholesome and flavorful dish is a perfect companion for rice, idli, or dosa.
This south_indian recipe takes 45 minutes to prepare and yields 4 servings. At 319.12 calories per serving with 13.12g of protein, it's a moderately challenging recipe perfect for lunch or dinner.
Prepare the Tempering (Tadka)
Finish and Serve
Add other vegetables like pumpkin, carrots, brinjal (eggplant), or bottle gourd along with the drumsticks for a mixed vegetable sambar.
For a richer flavor, make a fresh paste by grinding 1/4 cup grated coconut, 1 tbsp chana dal, 1 tsp coriander seeds, and 2 dried red chilies. Add this paste along with the dal.
You can use a mix of toor dal and masoor dal (red lentils) for a different texture and quicker cooking time.
Simply omit the onion for a version suitable for those who avoid it. The flavor will still be excellent due to the other spices.
Toor dal is an excellent source of plant-based protein and essential amino acids, which are crucial for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
The combination of lentils and vegetables makes this sambar high in dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion, preventing constipation, and helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Drumsticks are a powerhouse of nutrients, particularly Vitamin C and antioxidants, which help strengthen the immune system and protect the body against infections.
Spices like asafoetida, turmeric, and curry leaves, along with the tanginess of tamarind, stimulate digestive enzymes, reduce bloating, and promote good gut health.
A 1.5 cup serving of Drumstick Sambar contains approximately 220-260 calories, depending on the amount of oil and jaggery used. It's a relatively low-calorie and nutritious dish.
Yes, Drumstick Sambar is very healthy. It's rich in plant-based protein from lentils, packed with vitamins and minerals from drumsticks and other vegetables, and high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion. The spices used also have various health benefits.
Absolutely. You can cook the toor dal in a regular pot on the stovetop. It will take longer, about 45-60 minutes, for the dal to become completely soft. Make sure to add enough water and stir occasionally.
Bitterness in sambar can come from a few sources. Over-roasting or burning the fenugreek seeds during tempering is a common cause. Using too much sambar powder or a powder with a high proportion of fenugreek can also contribute to a bitter taste.
Leftover sambar can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The flavor often improves the next day. Reheat it thoroughly on the stovetop before serving.
Yes, this recipe is very versatile. You can add vegetables like pumpkin, carrots, brinjal (eggplant), bottle gourd, and shallots. Adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable's tenderness.