About the Recipe:
Tomato Masala Sambar is a South Indian delicacy embodying the essence of traditional flavours. Imagine ripe tomatoes, aromatic spices, and hearty lentils coming together in a delightful symphony, creating a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
Get ready for a gastronomic adventure! The medley of spices, tangy tomatoes, and wholesome lentils makes this sambar a sensory delight. It’s a culinary hug, perfect for cosy evenings and hearty meals.
Tomato Masala Sambar
Cooking Tips:
For an extra depth of flavour, roast the coriander seeds, cinnamon, and cloves before grinding. Adjust the tamarind quantity based on your tang preference.
Serving and Storing Suggestions:
Serving Size:Â 4-6 people
Total Time:Â 40 mins (Active: 15 mins, Cooking: 25 mins)
Pair this sambar with steamed rice or idli for an authentic South Indian experience. Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for up to three days.
Other Similar Recipes:
- Explore our Mixed Vegetable Sambar or Masoor Dal Curry for more South Indian culinary delights.
Nutrient Benefits:
Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, while lentils provide a protein boost. This sambar not only delights your taste buds but also nourishes your body.
Tomato Masala Sambar
Ingredients
- 2 Onions (finely chopped)
- 5 Tomatoes (chopped)
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric Powder
- 1/2 tsp Saunf
- 1 tsp Bengal Gram Dal
- 1 tsp Peanuts
- 2 tsp Coriander Seeds
- 2 tsp Coconut (grated)
- Cinnamon (a small piece)
- Ginger (a small piece)
- 2 Cardamoms
- 2 Cloves
- 3 Dry Red Chillies
- Tamarind (a small piece)
- Salt as per taste
- Oil as required
For Tempering:
- 1/2 tsp Cumin Seeds
- 1 tsp Mustard Seeds
- Curry Leaves (few)
Instructions
- Heat little oil in a pan over medium flame.
- Saute the onions and tomatoes separately and remove. Keep aside.
- Add a little oil to the pan.
- Add the saunf, bengal gram dal, peanuts, coriander seeds, cinnamon, ginger, coconut, cardamoms, cloves and red chillies.
- Fry for a minute and remove.
- Grind together with tamarind, onions and tomatoes to a smooth paste.
- Add enough water, salt, turmeric powder to the ground paste and place over medium flame.
- Bring to a boil.
- Fry the tempering ingredinets in little oil and add to the sambar.
- Bring to a boil again.
- Remove and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Is Tomato Masala Sambar spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted by controlling the quantity of red chillies. Feel free to tailor it to your taste.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
While fresh tomatoes are preferred, canned tomatoes can be used. Adjust the quantity based on taste.
What’s the difference between sambar and dal?
Sambar usually incorporates tamarind and a mix of vegetables, while dal is a more straightforward lentil dish. Both are delicious!
Can I skip the tempering step?
Tempering adds flavour, but you can skip it if you prefer a milder taste.
What’s a good side dish for Tomato Masala Sambar?
Pair it with dosa or idli for a classic South Indian meal experience.
Note: image is for illustration purposes only and not that of the actual recipe.
