Sambar
Tamil sambar with toor dal, drumstick, and tamarind — daily lunch dal.
For 2 servings
4 steps. 28 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
TIPSoak the dal for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure a smoother texture. - 2
Step 2
- a.Place drumstick, onion, and tomato in 200 ml of water.
- b.Boil for 6 minutes until the drumstick is tender but not falling apart.
- c.Whisk the cooked dal until smooth and stir it into the vegetable pot.
- 3
Step 3
TIPIf the sambar is too thick, add a splash of warm water to reach your desired consistency. - 4
Step 4
- a.Heat oil in a small pan and splutter mustard seeds, dried red chili, curry leaves, and asafoetida.
- b.Pour the hot tempering immediately over the simmering sambar.
- c.Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.
What to keep in mind.
3 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always mash the dal thoroughly before adding vegetables for a creamy, authentic consistency.
- 2Add the tempering at the very end and cover the pot for a minute to trap the aromatic oils.
- 3Use fresh curry leaves rather than dried for the most potent South Indian flavor profile.
Adapt it for your goals.
Low sodium
Reduce the salt and increase the tamarind paste slightly to maintain a sharp flavor profile.
spicierSpicier
Add two extra dried red chilies to the tempering or increase the sambar powder by half a teaspoon.
ckd friendlyCkd friendly
Leach the vegetables and limit the amount of toor dal to manage potassium and phosphorus levels.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High Dietary Fiber
Drumsticks and toor dal provide significant fiber for gut health.
Plant-Based Protein Source
Toor dal serves as an excellent source of protein for muscle maintenance.
Digestive Support
Cumin, turmeric, and asafoetida aid in reducing bloating and improving digestion.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a nutrient-dense dish providing plant-based protein from toor dal and essential fiber from drumsticks and other vegetables.