Sambar/ सांभर
Sambar is Also Known as Sambhar
Sambar is a rich, flavorful South Indian stew made from lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices, offering a perfect balance of nutrition and taste. This comforting dish pairs wonderfully with rice, dosa, or idli, making it a versatile meal for any occasion.
- Cook Time: 45.00 min
- Serving size: # 4
- Serve: Hot
- Per Serving Calore: 261.2975 Kcal
Sambar is not just a delicious dish, but also a healthy addition to your weekly meal plan! Packed with protein-rich toor dal (pigeon peas) and loaded with fiber from a variety of veggies, it’s the perfect balance of nutrition and flavor. Low in calories and high in antioxidants, Sambar helps boost digestion and keeps you full for longer. It’s also incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed with rice, dosa, or idli. Make Sambar a regular on your menu for a tasty, healthy meal that’s perfect for any day!
Nutrition Facts of Sambar
Amount per Serving of Sambar
Vitamins & Minerals present in
Sambar
Meal Planning Tips
Sambar – a warm, hearty, and absolutely delicious dish from the heart of South India – is the perfect addition to your meal plan. But it’s not just a treat for your taste buds! This spicy, tangy, and savory stew made from lentils, vegetables, and a unique blend of spices is packed with nutrients and health benefits that make it a must-try for anyone looking to eat healthier without compromising on taste.
When we talk about Sambar, it’s not just another vegetable stew; it’s a celebration of flavors. The primary base of toor dal (pigeon peas) provides a rich source of plant-based protein and fiber, which are essential for building muscle, maintaining a healthy digestive system, and keeping your energy levels steady throughout the day. Throw in a handful of colorful, nutritious vegetables – think carrots, potatoes, drumsticks, and beans – and you’ve got yourself a dish packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Not only does it deliver on the nutrition front, but Sambar is also a dish that’s incredibly customizable. Want to make it spicier? Add extra green chilies or a dash of red chili powder. Looking for a tangier twist? Just squeeze in some more tamarind paste or even fresh lemon juice. You can even go vegan or gluten-free without any hassle – the ingredients are naturally free of gluten and dairy, making it perfect for those with specific dietary needs. Plus, you can mix and match the vegetables to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand, making Sambar a versatile dish that can evolve with the seasons.
Speaking of seasons, Sambar is particularly comforting during the rainy and winter seasons when the need for something warm, hearty, and nourishing is at its peak. However, this dish can be enjoyed all year round, whether paired with fluffy rice, crispy dosa, or soft idli. It’s a staple on the menu at many South Indian homes, but trust us, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular in your kitchen too!
But the best part about adding Sambar to your weekly meal plan is the fact that it’s so easy to prepare. Whether you’re someone who loves spending time in the kitchen or someone who needs quick, healthy meals, Sambar fits right in. It’s a one-pot meal that takes only around 40 minutes to cook and can easily serve a family of four. Even if you’re cooking for one, you can easily scale the recipe down to make just a single serving!
So why wait? Make this deliciously filling, protein-packed dish a part of your diet today. Not only will it keep you full for hours, but it’ll also give your body the nutrients it needs to stay energized and healthy. Plus, with so many ways to customize and make it your own, Sambar will quickly become a favorite on your meal plan. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or something to spice up your weekend brunch, Sambar is always a winner!
Go ahead and give it a try – we promise you won’t regret it!
Ingredients Required for Sambar
Total Ingredients in Sambar are # 17
Easy Step-by-Step Instructions for making Sambar at Home.
Preparation: Begin by washing the lentils thoroughly and setting them aside. If you're using tamarind, soak it in warm water for a few minutes to extract the pulp. Meanwhile, chop your vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Ensure the carrots, potatoes, and beans are evenly cut to cook uniformly. (Time: 10 minutes)
Cooking the Lentils: In a large pot, add the washed toor dal along with enough water. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface. Once the dal softens, typically after 20 minutes of simmering, set it aside. (Time: 20 minutes)
Cooking the Vegetables: In a separate pan, heat some oil and add mustard seeds. Let them splutter before adding cumin seeds and dried red chilies. Stir in your chopped vegetables and cook them for a few minutes. Add water to help the vegetables cook through and simmer until tender. (Time: 10 minutes)
Combining Ingredients: Now, add the cooked dal to the vegetable mix. Stir well to combine, and add the tamarind pulp. Next, add sambar powder, turmeric, and a pinch of salt to the pot. Mix everything together and allow it to cook for another 10-15 minutes. This step lets the flavors meld and enhances the dish’s aroma. (Time: 15 minutes)
Tempering: In a small pan, heat some oil for tempering. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and curry leaves, letting them sizzle. Once fragrant, pour this tempering into the sambar, giving it a good stir. Let it cook for a few more minutes to absorb all the spices. (Time: 5 minutes)
Final Touch: Garnish the sambar with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve it hot with steamed rice, idli, or dosa. You’ve now made a flavorful, nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. (Time: 5 minutes)
Total Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
