Beetroot Sambar is a delightful twist on the traditional South Indian sambar. This dish combines the earthy sweetness of beetroots, the creaminess of lentils, and a mix of aromatic spices to create a flavorful and nutritious meal. The vibrant red colour of the sambar is visually appealing, and its rich, tangy flavour is sure to make it a favourite in your household. Perfect with rice or dosas, Beetroot Sambar offers a unique culinary experience that’s both satisfying and healthy.
About the Recipe
Beetroot Sambar is a recipe worth trying for its unique flavours and health benefits. This dish blends the sweet, earthy taste of beetroot with the creamy texture of lentils, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. The spices used in this sambar, including mustard seeds, cumin, and curry leaves, add depth and complexity to the flavour profile. Originating from South India, sambar is a staple in many households and is enjoyed for its versatility and nutritional value. Beetroot Sambar is an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a delicious and comforting dish.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Beetroot Sambar stands out for its delicious taste and vibrant appearance. The combination of tender beetroots, creamy lentils, and a blend of spices creates a rich and satisfying dish that is both flavorful and nutritious. The recipe is easy to follow and can be made with readily available ingredients, making it a great addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re a fan of traditional South Indian cuisine or looking to try something new, Beetroot Sambar is sure to impress with its unique flavours and wholesome ingredients.
Beetroot Sambar
Cooking Tips
Use fresh beetroots and high-quality spices to get the best results with Beetroot Sambar. Cook the lentils until soft and
mashable, ensuring a creamy consistency. Adding a pinch of asafoetida during tempering enhances the aroma and flavour. For a richer taste, add a teaspoon of ghee at the end. Adjust the thickness of the sambar by adding more water if needed, and simmer until you achieve the desired consistency.
Cultural Context
Beetroot Sambar hails from South India, a region renowned for its diverse and flavorful vegetarian dishes. Sambar is a staple in South Indian cuisine, typically served with rice, idlis, or dosas. This version, incorporating beetroot, adds a modern twist to the traditional recipe while retaining its cultural roots. Sambar is often enjoyed during festive occasions and daily meals, highlighting its versatility and importance in South Indian culinary traditions.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Beetroot Sambar is best served hot with steamed rice, idlis, or dosas. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving. If the sambar thickens after refrigeration, add a little water while reheating to restore its original consistency. This dish serves four and takes approximately 45 minutes to prepare and cook.
Other Similar Recipes
- Rasam: A tangy South Indian soup made with tamarind and spices.
- Dal Tadka: A creamy lentil dish tempered with spices.
- Vegetable Sambar: A traditional sambar with mixed vegetables.
Nutrient Benefits
Beetroot is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, promoting heart health and boosting stamina. Lentils provide a good source of protein and fibre, aiding digestion and maintaining energy levels. This combination makes Beetroot Sambar a nutritious and balanced meal.
Beetroot Sambar
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Beetroot (diced)
- 1 Cup Toor Dal (Yellow Pigeon Peas)
- 1 Tbsp Tamarind Paste
- 2 Green Chillies (slit)
- 1/2 Tsp Turmeric Powder
- 2 Tbsp Sambar Powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 Tbsp Oil
- 1 Tsp Mustard Seeds
- 1 Tsp Cumin Seeds
- 1/2 Tsp Asafoetida
- 10-12 Curry Leaves
- 2 Dried Red Chillies
- Fresh Coriander Leaves (chopped (for garnish))
Instructions
- Cook the Dal: Rinse the toor dal thoroughly and cook it in a pressure cooker with 3 cups of water until soft and mushy. Mash the dal and set aside.
- Prepare Beetroot: In a large pan, combine the beetroot, tamarind paste, green chillies, turmeric powder, sambar powder, and salt. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer, covered, for 12-15 minutes until the beetroot is tender.
- Mix Dal: Add the cooked and mashed dal to the pan with the beetroot. Simmer uncovered for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until well blended.
- Tempering: In a small pan, heat the oil over moderate heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then, add cumin seeds, asafoetida, curry leaves, and dried red chillies. Stir for a few seconds until aromatic.
- Combine and Serve: Mix the tempering mixture into the sambar. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with rice or dosas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Beetroot Sambar less spicy?
Beetroot Sambar can be adjusted to your spice preference. Reduce the number of green chillies or use milder chillies. You can also use less sambar powder or opt for a milder version. Adding a bit of jaggery (unrefined sugar) can balance the heat and enhance the overall flavour. This flexibility allows you to enjoy the dish according to your taste.
Can I use other vegetables in Beetroot Sambar?
Absolutely! Beetroot Sambar can be customized with various vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, or drumsticks. Adding these vegetables and beetroot enhances the nutritional value and adds different textures. Ensure the vegetables are cooked until tender for the best results. This versatility makes Beetroot Sambar a great way to use up leftover vegetables in your kitchen.
What can I serve with Beetroot Sambar?
Beetroot Sambar pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, idlis, or dosas. It can also be enjoyed with quinoa or millet for a healthier alternative. A side of papad or coconut chutney complements the dish, adding a crunchy and flavorful contrast. This variety of serving options makes Beetroot Sambar a versatile and enjoyable meal.
Can I make Beetroot Sambar in advance?
Yes, Beetroot Sambar can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavours develop even more as it sits, making it even tastier. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a little water to adjust the consistency. This convenience makes it an excellent dish for meal prepping.
What are the health benefits of Beetroot Sambar?
Beetroot Sambar is packed with nutrients. Beetroot is high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which support heart health and boost stamina. Lentils provide a good source of protein and fibre, aiding digestion and maintaining energy levels. The spices used in sambar also have anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, making this dish delicious and nutritious.
