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Sambar – South Indian Lentil Vegetable Stew

Sambar is a hearty South Indian dish made with toor dal (pigeon peas), tamarind, assorted vegetables, and a flavorful sambar powder. It’s a staple accompaniment in almost every South Indian household.

Why it’s special:
It balances protein from lentils, sourness from tamarind, and aroma from spices — a complete, nourishing dish.

Serving suggestions:
Traditionally served with idli, dosa, vada, rice, or pongal.

Variations:
Regional versions include Arachuvitta Sambar (Tamil Nadu), Udupi Sambar (Karnataka), and Kerala Sambar.

Nutrition highlight:
Rich in plant protein, fiber, and antioxidants from multiple vegetables.

Sambar – South Indian Lentil Vegetable Stew

Sambar is a traditional South Indian lentil stew made with toor dal, tamarind, vegetables, and aromatic sambar powder. A wholesome dish enjoyed across South India.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Breakfast, Side Dish
Cuisine: South Indian
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients:
  • 1 cup toor dal pigeon peas
  • 1 tbsp tamarind paste
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables carrot, drumstick, beans, okra
  • 1 onion sliced
  • 2 tomatoes chopped
  • 2 tbsp sambar powder
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Curry leaves mustard seeds, dried red chilies (for tempering)

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. Cook toor dal until soft and mash.
  2. Boil vegetables with turmeric and salt until tender.
  3. Add tamarind paste, tomatoes, and sambar powder. Simmer.
  4. Mix in cooked dal and adjust consistency.
  5. Prepare tempering with oil, mustard seeds, curry leaves, and red chilies.
  6. Pour over sambar and serve hot.

Notes

Serving Suggestions:
  • Serve with steamed rice.
  • Pair with idli, dosa, or vada.
  • Enjoy with papad or coconut chutney.
 
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