
Sambar Masala
Sambar masala is a fragrant spice blend originating from South India, essential for making the popular lentil-based vegetable stew called sambar. This vibrant powder typically boasts a reddish-brown hue and delivers a complex flavor profile. Expect a harmonious balance of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy notes. Common ingredients in sambar masala often include coriander seeds, cumin seeds, dried red chilies, fenugreek seeds, mustard seeds, black peppercorns, dried curry leaves, asafoetida, and turmeric. The specific combination and ratios of these spices can vary between regions and recipes, resulting in diverse sambar masala blends.
Common Uses
- Sambar masala is primarily used to flavor sambar, a South Indian lentil and vegetable stew, adding depth and complexity to the dish's flavor.- It can be incorporated into vegetable curries and stews to impart a distinctive South Indian flavor profile, enriching the taste of various vegetarian dishes.- Sambar masala serves as a flavorful addition to dry vegetable preparations (sabzis), infusing them with a unique aroma and taste that complements the natural flavors of the vegetables.- Add a pinch of sambar masala to rasam (a thin, broth-like soup) to enhance its taste and aroma and provide a subtle spicy kick that elevates the comforting properties of the soup.- Sambar masala can be used as a seasoning for snacks like vegetable cutlets or fritters, creating a flavorful and aromatic coating that increases the palatability of the snack.- Mix sambar masala with yogurt or buttermilk to create a quick and flavorful marinade for vegetables or meats before grilling or roasting, thereby increasing the tenderness and flavoring the ingredients.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
357.0kcal (17.85%)
Protein
15.0g (30%)
Carbs
48.0g (17.45%)
Sugars
3.0g (6%)
Healthy Fat
9.0g
Unhealthy Fat
4.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
357.0kcal (17.85%)
Protein
15.0g (30%)
Carbs
48.0g (17.45%)
Sugars
3.0g (6%)
Healthy Fat
9.0g
Unhealthy Fat
4.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- Rich in antioxidants from various spices, helping combat free radicals.
- May aid digestion due to the presence of spices like cumin, coriander, and fenugreek.
- Provides anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing inflammation in the body.
- Can boost immunity with spices known for their antimicrobial effects.
- Source of dietary fiber, promoting gut health and regularity.
Substitutes
Storage Tips
Store sambar masala in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as a pantry or spice cabinet. This helps to preserve its flavor and aroma. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or heat, as these can degrade the quality of the spices. Properly stored sambar masala can last for up to a year.
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