Spiced Lentil and Vegetable Sambhar: A Perfect Indian Comfort Dish

Spiced Lentil and Vegetable Sambhar Recipe

Sambhar is a beloved South Indian dish that's hearty, healthy, and brimming with flavours of warm spices, tangy tamarind, and creamy coconut. This recipe combines red or yellow lentils, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices to create a dish that's perfect with rice, dosas, or idli. Whether you're new to sambhar or looking for a simple recipe to perfect it, this guide has you covered!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 200g lentils (red or yellow preferred)
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 1.5 tsp salt
• 2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1.5 tbsp tamarind paste or juice of half a lemon

Tempering Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp ghee or butter
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp ground coriander
• 150g grated or desiccated coconut
• 1.5 tbsp mustard seeds
• 2 green chillies, sliced (optional)
• 10 curry leaves
• 2 tsp sambhar masala (Make your own sambhar powder or use additional turmeric, cumin, coriander, and fenugreek seeds)

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Lentils and Vegetables

1. Rinse the lentils thoroughly and soak if required, depending on the variety used.
2. In a large pot, combine the lentils, chopped carrots, potatoes, salt, and turmeric with about 1 litre of water.
3. Bring to a boil and simmer until the lentils and vegetables are soft.

Step 2: Add the Tangy Element

4. Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the tamarind paste or lemon juice for a tangy, flavourful base.

Step 3: Prepare the Tempering

5. In a separate pan, heat the ghee or butter over medium heat.
6. Add cumin, coriander, and grated coconut, stirring until fragrant.
7. Add mustard seeds, green chillies (if using), and curry leaves, frying until the mustard seeds pop.
8. Sprinkle in sambhar masala or your customised spice mix (turmeric, cumin, coriander, and fenugreek seeds). Cook for 1–2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

9. Pour the tempering mixture into the lentils and stir well. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to blend the flavours.
10. Adjust the consistency—cook longer for a thicker sambhar or add water if you prefer it soupy.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with fluffy boiled rice, crispy dosas, or soft idli.
• Pair with a side of coconut chutney or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

1. Customise Your Vegetables: Add any firm vegetables like beans, squash, or okra for more variety.
2. Control the Heat: Adjust the green chillies to suit your spice tolerance.
3. Freshness Matters: Use fresh curry leaves and good-quality tamarind paste for the best flavour.

Why You'll Love This Sambhar Recipe

This recipe is a balance of warm spices, tangy tamarind, and creamy coconut, creating a dish that is as comforting as it is delicious. It’s perfect for family meals, meal prep, or impressing guests with authentic South Indian flavours.

Make this sambhar your next kitchen adventure and enjoy the richness of Indian culinary tradition right at home!