Idli Sambhar

Authentic Idli Sambar Recipe: A Delicious South Indian Delight

Introduction

Idli Sambar is a classic and beloved South Indian dish that has gained popularity worldwide. This delectable combination of fluffy rice cakes (idli) and flavorful lentil soup (sambar) makes for a wholesome and satisfying meal. Whether you're a fan of South Indian cuisine or looking to explore new flavors, this authentic Idli Sambar recipe will surely delight your taste buds. Let's dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to prepare this delicious dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For Idli:

• 2 cups idli rice
• 1 cup urad dal (split black lentils)
• 1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
• Water for soaking and grinding
• Salt to taste

For Sambar:

• 1 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas)
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, potatoes, drumsticks, etc.)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 tablespoon sambar powder
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• A few curry leaves
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Salt to taste
• Tamarind paste (optional) for tanginess
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Instructions

Preparing the Idli Batter:

1. Wash the idli rice and urad dal separately and soak them in water overnight or for at least 6 hours.
2. In a grinder, grind the urad dal and fenugreek seeds to a smooth paste. Transfer it to a large bowl.
3. Grind the idli rice to a slightly coarse texture and add it to the same bowl as the urad dal paste.
4. Mix the two batters together, adding water gradually, until you achieve a thick yet pourable consistency.
5. Add salt to taste and mix well. Cover the bowl and let the batter ferment in a warm place for 8-10 hours or overnight.
6. After fermentation, the batter will rise and become light and fluffy.

Steaming the Idlis:

1. Grease the idli molds with oil or ghee. Fill each mold with the fermented batter.
2. Place the idli molds in a steamer or an idli cooker filled with water.
3. Steam the idlis on medium heat for about 10-12 minutes or until they are cooked and firm.
4. Once done, remove the molds from the steamer and let them cool for a few minutes.
5. Gently remove the idlis from the molds using a spoon.

Preparing the Sambar:

1. Rinse the toor dal and cook it in a pressure cooker with water until soft and mushy.
2. In a separate pot, heat oil and add mustard seeds. Let them splutter, then add cumin seeds, asafoetida, and curry leaves.
3. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
4. Add chopped tomatoes and green chilies. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and mushy.
5. Add the mixed vegetables, sambar powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.
6. Add water and cook the vegetables until they are tender.
7. Once the vegetables are cooked, add the cooked toor dal and tamarind paste (if using). Mix well and let the sambar simmer for a few minutes.
8. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Serving the Idli Sambar:

1. Serve the steaming hot idlis with a generous ladle of sambar.
2. You can also serve coconut chutney or tomato chutney as accompaniments.
3. Enjoy the flavorsome Idli Sambar while it's still hot!

Conclusion

Idli Sambar is a delightful and nutritious dish that captures the essence of South Indian cuisine. With its fluffy idlis and aromatic sambar, it offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures. By following this authentic recipe, you can recreate the magic of Idli Sambar in your own kitchen and experience the joy of this traditional South Indian delicacy.