Moong Dal Sambar

Sambar is a popular and loved dishes in any South Indian cuisine. Any South Indian meal is incomplete without sambhar. Every South Indian family will have their version of sambar with lots of variations to it. Today, I'd like to share my version of moong dal sambar. Moong dal is a rich source of protein and fiber. Also, it is low in fat and cholesterol free. It is very easy and quick to make, especially in days when you’re too bored to cook. In fact, I like this more than the regular sambar. I love to have moong sambar poured over piping hot idlis. Definitely my kind of comfort food!! This sambar is a perfect accompaniment to idli, dosa, upma, pongal and even rice.  

Ingredients:-

• ½ cup moong dal / yellow split lentils
• 2 tbsp sambar powder
• 1 tbsp ghee / clarified butter
• ½ tsp cumin seeds
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• ½ tsp red chilli pdr  
• ¼ tsp mustard seeds 
• 5-6 curry leaves
• 3 tomatoes (finely chopped)
• 2 green chillies 
• 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• a pinch of asafoetida
• small ball of tamarind (soaked in water)
• salt to taste
• few chopped coriander leaves (for garnishing)

Method:-

• Boil moong dal along with 2½ cups water and 1 tsp oil.
• When done, whisk the dal well and keep aside.
• Heat oil in a wok.
• Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, curry leaves, garlic and asafoetida.
• Saute well and add onions and whole green chillies.
• When onions are soft, add tomatoes and cook till oil separates.
• Add the dal, salt, tamarind pulp and sambar powder.
• Cook till you get required consistency.
• Garnish with coriander leaves.

Notes:-

• You may add 2 drumsticks (cut into small pieces) after adding curry leaves.
• You may add chopped vegetables (brinjals, lady finger's or potato) to the sambhar along with tomatoes.
• You may increase the amount of water as per required consistency.

Happy Cooking!!

Sending this entry to :- Healthy Diet–Lunchbox Recipes & Priya's Healthy Diet page and SIC–South Indian Cooking & Anu's Page and Srivalli's Side Dish Mela