Spice Up Your Dinner with this Americanized Sambar Recipe

This Americanized sambar recipe combines the traditional South Indian flavors of lentils, tamarind, and spices with a touch of American twist. Creamy lentils, tangy tamarind, and aromatic spices come together to create a comforting and satisfying meal that will surely become a favorite in your household. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a hearty lunch, and is sure to impress your family and friends with its unique flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of Toor dal (split pigeon peas)
• 2 medium-sized carrots, diced
• 1 small eggplant, diced
• 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup of tamarind pulp
• 2 teaspoons of sambar powder
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon of asafoetida (hing)
• 10-12 curry leaves
• 2 dried red chillies
• 2 tablespoons of oil
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

Directions

1. Wash the Toor dal and soak it in water for 30 minutes.
2. Pressure cook the dal with turmeric powder and water until soft and mushy.
3. Heat oil in a large pot and add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, asafoetida, curry leaves, and dried red chillies.
4. Add onions and sauté until translucent.
5. Add carrots, eggplant, and tomatoes, and cook until the vegetables are soft.
6. Add the tamarind pulp, sambar powder, salt, and water. Mix well and bring it to a boil.
7. Add the cooked dal to the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the flavors meld together.
8. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed.
9. Serve hot with steamed rice or idli.
10. Enjoy the fusion of Indian and American flavors!

Interesting Facts