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Tamil Nadu Sambar Traditional South Indian Recipe

A classic South Indian lentil curry served with rice and tiffin items.

Sambar traditional recipe

Sambar

author
ByKavitha

Quick Info

  • Prep: 15 mins
  • Cook: 30 mins
  • Servings: 4

Ingredient Substitutes

  • Vegetables vary

Ingredients

  • Toor dal
  • Mixed vegetables
  • Tamarind
  • Sambar powder
  • Mustard seeds
  • Curry leaves
  • Oil
  • Salt

Instructions

  1. Cook dal until soft.
  2. Boil vegetables with tamarind.
  3. Add sambar powder and dal.
  4. Temper with mustard and curry leaves.
Sambar - additional

Tips & Variations

Use freshly roasted sambar powder | Balance tamarind carefully

You will love it

Sambar is one of the most iconic dishes of Tamil Nadu, made with toor dal, mixed vegetables, tamarind, and freshly ground sambar powder. It is a daily staple served with rice, idli, dosa, or vada, and varies slightly from region to region.

Serving: Serve hot with rice or idli.

Storage: Consume fresh

Tools Required

Pressure cooker

FAQ

Is it spicy?

Medium.

Vegan?

Yes.

Gluten-free?

Yes.

Daily food?

Yes.

Temple style?

Yes.

šŸ“ From Our Kitchen

Sambar is cooked almost daily in Tamil households.

— Kavitha, Cheffo Kitchen

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Kavitha - Cheffo Founder & Chef

Kavitha

Founder & Publisher • Culinary Editor

Hi, I’m Kavitha — the founder of Cheffo. Cooking has always been close to my heart, especially traditional recipes passed down through families. Through Cheffo, I share authentic regional dishes with clear instructions and practical tips so you can recreate those comforting flavors at home.

ByKavitha