Here's a unique sambar recipe for you:


Title: Fragrant Lentil Sambar with a Twist


Introduction:

This aromatic lentil-based dish called sambar is a classic South Indian recipe that is known for its rich flavors and comforting appeal. In this unique version, we will infuse the traditional sambar with a delightful twist, making it an unforgettable culinary experience. Let's get started!


Ingredients:

1 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas)

1 small eggplant, diced

1 medium-sized carrot, chopped

1 drumstick, cut into 2-inch pieces

10-12 shallots, peeled

2 tomatoes, chopped

1 tablespoon tamarind pulp

1 teaspoon jaggery (palm sugar)

A handful of fresh curry leaves

2 tablespoons sambar powder

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

2 dry red chilies

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing


Instructions:


1. Pressure Cook the Lentils:

   - Rinse the toor dal thoroughly and pressure cook it with 2 cups of water until soft and mushy. Set aside.


2. Prepare the Tamarind Pulp:

   - Soak the tamarind pulp in ½ cup of warm water for about 10 minutes. Extract the pulp by squeezing the tamarind, discarding any solids.


3. Sauté the Vegetables:

   - Heating oil in a large pot nor deep pan. Add mustard seeds. Add cumin seeds and dry red chilies. Let them splutter.

   - Add the shallots. Sauté until they turn golden brown.

   - Add the curry leaves, chopped tomatoes, eggplant, carrot, and drumstick. Cook for 5 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly.


4. Add Spices:

   - Sprinkle sambar powder, turmeric powder, and salt over the sautéed vegetables. Mix well, allowing the spices to coat the vegetables evenly.


5. Simmer with Tamarind Pulp:

   - Pour in the tamarind pulp extracted earlier into the pot.

   - Add 2 cups of water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

   - Cover and cook on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.


6. Incorporate Cooked Lentils:

   - Mash the cooked toor dal and add it to the simmering pot of vegetables and spices.

   - Stir well to combine and let it cook for another 5 minutes, ensuring the lentils are fully incorporated.


7. Balance the Flavors:

   - Add jaggery (palm sugar) to balance the tanginess of the tamarind. Adjust the salt and spice levels as per your taste preference.

8. Tempering:

   - In a separate small pan, heat a teaspoon of oil. affix the mustard and let to them splutter.

   - Add few curry leaves and fry for a some seconds.

   - Pour this tempering over the prepared sambar, giving it a final aromatic touch.


9. Garnish and Serve:

   - Remove the sambar from heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

   - Serve hot with steamed rice, idli, dosa, or any South Indian bread of your choice.


Enjoy the unique flavors of this fragrant lentil sambar with a twist, and savor the delightful combination of spices and vegetables that make it truly special!