Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey through the vibrant flavors of South Indian cuisine with this irresistible Drumstick Sambar recipe! Imagine a hearty, aromatic dish that combines tender drumsticks, creamy lentils, and a perfect blend of spices that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of India. Whether you're a curious foodie or a seasoned cook looking to expand your culinary repertoire, this recipe promises to unlock a world of incredible taste and nutrition that will leave you craving more!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Drumsticks
- Lentils (toor dal)
- Sambar powder
- Tomatoes
- Onion
- Curry leaves
- Salt
- Oil
Instructions
- Wash the toor dal thoroughly and add it to a pressure cooker with water. Cook for 3-4 whistles until the lentils are soft and mushy.
- Meanwhile, wash and chop the drumsticks into 2-3 inch long pieces. Finely chop onions and tomatoes.
- Heat oil in a large cooking pot. Add curry leaves and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and light golden brown.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and start to break down.
- Mash the cooked lentils and add them to the pot with the onion-tomato mixture.
- Add sambar powder, salt, and sufficient water to create a medium-thick consistency.
- Add the chopped drumsticks and simmer on medium heat for 15-20 minutes until drumsticks become tender.
- Stir occasionally and adjust water and seasoning as needed during cooking.
- Once drumsticks are soft and the sambar reaches desired consistency, remove from heat.
- Garnish with fresh curry leaves and serve hot with steamed rice or dosa.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Select tender, bright green drumsticks for the best flavor and texture.
- Pressure Cooking Technique: Use a pressure cooker for the lentils to ensure they're perfectly soft and creamy.
- Spice Balance: Adjust the sambar powder quantity to match your heat preference.
- Consistency is Key: Add water gradually to achieve the ideal medium-thick sambar consistency.
- Cooking Time: Simmer the drumsticks until they're tender but not mushy - typically 15-20 minutes.
- Fresh Garnish: Always add fresh curry leaves at the end for an authentic aroma and flavor boost.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with steamed rice or crispy dosa for a complete meal experience.
- Make Ahead: This sambar tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
