Sambar Rice
A comforting one-pot meal from South India where rice and lentils are cooked together with a medley of vegetables and aromatic spices. This wholesome dish, also known as Sambar Sadam, is a perfect, satisfying lunch.
For 4 servings
Prepare the base ingredients.
- Rinse the toor dal and rice together under running water until the water runs clear.
- Soak the dal and rice mixture in water for 30 minutes. This is optional but recommended for a softer texture.
- Drain the water completely and set aside.
- Chop all the vegetables and keep them ready.
TIPSoaking the dal and rice ensures they cook evenly and become mushy, which is characteristic of Sambar Rice.Pressure cook the dal, rice, and vegetables.
- In a 5-liter pressure cooker, add the soaked and drained dal-rice mixture.
- Add the chopped drumsticks, carrots, and french beans.
- Pour in 6 cups of water, add turmeric powder and 1.5 tsp of salt.
- Mix well, close the lid, and pressure cook on medium heat for 4 to 5 whistles.
- Let the pressure release naturally.
TIPAllowing the pressure to release on its own is crucial for the dal and rice to cook through completely.Add the sambar flavors.
- Once the pressure has settled, open the cooker.
- Mash the mixture gently with the back of a ladle to get a slightly creamy, cohesive consistency.
- Add the sambar onions, chopped tomatoes, tamarind paste, and sambar powder.
- Mix everything well and let it simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, until the raw smell of the tamarind and masala disappears.
- Check for salt and adjust if needed. If the mixture is too thick, add a little hot water.
Prepare the tempering.
- In a small pan, heat 2 tsp of ghee over medium heat.
- Add the mustard seeds. Once they start to splutter, add the cumin seeds.
- Add the dried red chilies and curry leaves, and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
- Finally, add the asafoetida, give it a quick stir, and turn off the heat.
TIPBe careful not to burn the spices. The tempering should be aromatic, not bitter.Combine and serve.
- Pour the hot tempering over the cooked Sambar Rice.
- Mix well to incorporate the flavors throughout the dish.
- Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
Serve hot.
Serve the Sambar Rice immediately, topped with a dollop of ghee if desired, alongside papad or a simple vegetable stir-fry.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a richer flavor, you can add a small piece of jaggery along with the tamarind paste to balance the tanginess.
- 2Mash the cooked rice and dal mixture well for a creamier, restaurant-style texture.
- 3You can use other vegetables like pumpkin, brinjal (eggplant), or bottle gourd.
- 4The consistency of Sambar Rice is a personal preference. Adjust the amount of water to make it thicker or thinner.
- 5Using homemade sambar powder will elevate the taste of the dish significantly.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the ghee used for tempering with coconut oil or any neutral vegetable oil.
healthyHealthy
For a healthier version, use brown rice instead of white rice. You may need to increase the water quantity and cooking time.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Reduce the amount of sambar powder to 1.5 tbsp and skip the dried red chilies in the tempering to make it less spicy for kids.
quickQuick
If you have leftover sambar, you can simply cook rice and mix it with the sambar, simmering for a few minutes to combine. Add a fresh tempering on top.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Protein
Toor dal is an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
The combination of lentils and a variety of vegetables provides a high amount of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps in maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
Provides Complex Carbohydrates
Rice provides complex carbohydrates that offer sustained energy, keeping you full and active for longer periods.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
The medley of vegetables like carrots, beans, and drumsticks ensures a good supply of essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Sambar Rice is a very healthy and balanced meal. It provides a good mix of protein from lentils, carbohydrates from rice, and essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the variety of vegetables used.