Drumstick Sambar: A Flavorful and Nutritious South Indian Delight 🍛🌿
Sambar is an integral part of South Indian cuisine, and when it comes to adding a unique flavor, drumsticks (moringa pods) are a game-changer! Drumstick Sambar is a delicious, tangy, and spicy lentil-based stew enriched with the goodness of drumsticks, tamarind, and aromatic spices.
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| Prepared Drumstick sambar |
This wholesome dish is rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it both nutritious and delicious. Whether paired with steamed rice, dosa, idli, or vada, drumstick sambar makes every meal comforting and satisfying.
Let’s dive into a step-by-step guide to making the perfect drumstick sambar at home.
Why You Should Try Drumstick Sambar?
✅ Nutrient-Packed: Drumsticks are rich in iron, calcium, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making sambar a superfood for immunity and bone health.
✅ Aromatic & Flavorful: The combination of lentils, tamarind, and fresh spices gives it a robust taste and irresistible aroma.
✅ Versatile Dish: Can be served with steamed rice, idli, dosa, or even as a wholesome soup.
✅ Gut-Friendly & Vegan: A naturally fiber-rich, plant-based dish that aids digestion.
Ingredients for Drumstick Sambar 🛒
For Pressure-Cooking Dal (Lentils):
✔ 1 cup toor dal (pigeon peas)
✔ 2 cups water
✔ ¼ tsp turmeric powder
✔ ½ tsp salt
✔ 1 tsp ghee (optional, for extra flavor)
For Sambar Base:
✔ 2 drumsticks, cut into 2-inch pieces
✔ 1 medium onion, sliced
✔ 1 medium tomato, chopped
✔ 1 small tamarind ball (soaked in warm water)
✔ ½ tsp turmeric powder
✔ 1 tbsp sambar powder
✔ ½ tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
✔ ½ tsp jaggery or sugar (optional, for balancing flavors)
✔ 3 cups water
For Tempering (Tadka):
✔ 1 tbsp oil or ghee
✔ 1 tsp mustard seeds
✔ 1 tsp cumin seeds
✔ 1-2 dried red chilies
✔ ½ tsp asafoetida (hing)
✔ 10-12 curry leaves
✔ 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Recipe to Make Drumstick Sambar
Step 1: Cook the Dal
1️⃣ Rinse toor dal thoroughly and add it to a pressure cooker with water, turmeric, salt, and ghee.
2️⃣ Cook for 3–4 whistles on medium flame until the dal turns soft and mushy.
3️⃣ Once done, mash the dal well and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sambar Base
1️⃣ Soak tamarind in warm water for 10 minutes, then extract its pulp and discard the fibers.
2️⃣ Heat 2 cups of water in a pan and add chopped drumsticks, onions, and tomatoes.
3️⃣ Add turmeric, sambar powder, red chili powder, and salt. Let it simmer for 10–12 minutes until the drumsticks turn tender.
4️⃣ Now, pour in the tamarind extract and jaggery (if using). Cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Dal & Sambar Base
1️⃣ Add the cooked and mashed dal to the simmering sambar.
2️⃣ Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed.
3️⃣ Let it cook on low flame for another 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
Step 4: Prepare the Tempering (Tadka)
1️⃣ Heat oil or ghee in a small pan.
2️⃣ Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
3️⃣ Add cumin seeds, dried red chilies, curry leaves, and asafoetida. Sauté for a few seconds.
4️⃣ Pour this flavorful tempering over the sambar and mix well.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
🌿 Sprinkle fresh coriander leaves for extra freshness.
🍛 Serve hot with steamed rice, dosa, idli, or vada.
Pro Tips for the Best Drumstick Sambar
🔥 For a richer flavor, use homemade sambar powder.
🔥 Don’t overcook the drumsticks; they should be soft yet hold their shape.
🔥 Adjust tamarind and jaggery to balance tanginess and sweetness.
🔥 For a smokier taste, roast the drumsticks before adding them to the sambar.
Health Benefits of Drumstick Sambar 🌿💪
🥦 Rich in Iron & Calcium: Strengthens bones and teeth.
💖 Heart-Healthy: Keeps cholesterol levels in check.
🍽 Aids Digestion: High fiber content promotes gut health.
🛡 Boosts Immunity: Loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Drumstick Sambar is a classic South Indian delicacy that is simple to make, loaded with nutrients, and packed with comforting flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it with a plate of steaming rice or crispy dosa, this flavorful dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
So, why wait? Try this homemade drumstick sambar recipe today and bring the authentic taste of South India to your kitchen.
🔥 Have you tried making sambar at home? Share your experience in the comments.
