This Instant Tiffin Sambhar is a flavorful and comforting dish, perfect for a quick meal. The recipe involves pressure cooking dal with tomatoes and turmeric, followed by sautéing aromatic spices and vegetables. The addition of tamarind water, jaggery, and ghee gives it a unique taste and aroma. It's a slightly thin sambhar, ideal for pairing with idlis or dosas.
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Ingredients
For the dal
dal1cup
water1cup
haldi1tsp
For the tempering and vegetables
oil2tbsp
mustard seeds1tsp
cumin seeds1tsp
methi seeds1tsp
hing1pinch
curry leaves1sprig
number shallots or onion4
red pumpkin100g
carrot100g- number french beans5
drumstick cut into medium size1piece
For the sambhar
sambar powder1tbsp
chilli powder1tsp
tamarind water1/4cup- water2cups
jaggery1tbsp
ghee1tbsp
coriander1tbsp
Salt to taste
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
114.0kcal (5.7%)
Protein
3.8g (7.6%)
Carbs
11.9g (4.33%)
Sugars
3.1g (6.16%)
Healthy Fat
3.8g
Unhealthy Fat
1.7g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Instant Tiffin Sambhar
Prepare the dal
- Step 1
Wash the dal thoroughly and add it to a pressure cooker along with turmeric, and water. Pressure cook for 3–4 whistles until the dal is soft and cooked.
- Step 2
Mash the cooked dal well and set aside.
Prepare the tempering and vegetables
- Step 1
Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, methi seeds , pinch of hing and curry leaves.
- Step 2
Add shallots or onions and sauté until they become soft. Add tomatoes and cook until they turn mushy.
- Step 3
Add roughly chopped vegetables like potato, red pumpkin, carrot, and french beans. Sauté for a minute.
Prepare the sambhar
- Step 1
Mix in sambar powder, chilli powder, salt, and tamarind water.
- Step 2
Add water and let the vegetables cook until they soften.
- Step 3
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the mashed dal and adjust the thickness of the sambhar. Tiffin sambar is pourable, perfect for idli/dosa. Add a little extra water and simmer well.
- Step 4
Add jaggery and simmer for 5–6 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Step 5
Finish by adding coriander, few curry leaves and a little ghee for aroma.
- Step 6
Serve hot with idlis , dosas or rice.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
114.0kcal (5.7%)
Protein
3.8g (7.6%)
Carbs
11.9g (4.33%)
Sugars
3.1g (6.16%)
Healthy Fat
3.8g
Unhealthy Fat
1.7g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Use shallots for authentic hotel taste.
Mash the dal until creamy — this gives that silky texture without making it too thick.
Tiffin sambar is pourable, perfect for idli/dosa. Add a little extra water and simmer well.
Let the sambar sit for at least 30 min before serving as the flavours deepen upon resting for sometime.
FAQS
Can I use any other dal for this recipe?
Traditionally, toor dal is used for sambhar, but you can also use moong dal or masoor dal as alternatives.
How do I make tamarind water?
Soak tamarind in warm water for 10–15 minutes, then strain to extract the pulp.
Can I skip jaggery?
Jaggery adds a subtle sweetness that balances the tanginessof tomato but you can skip it if you prefer a purely tangy sambhar.
What vegetables can I add to sambhar?
You can add vegetables like drumstick, brinjal, radish, or any seasonal vegetables along with the ones mentioned in the recipe.
How long does sambhar remain fresh ?
Depends upon the climatic conditions of your area. Moreover it's better to consume within 12-15 hours considering health on priority basis.
Ria Ramesh Pai
(@riapai009)
Cooking has always been my way of spreading love and warmth. Through this channel, I share recipes close to my heart—some from childhood memories, some from daily life, and some festive treats. It’s my little space to celebrate the joy of homemade food and connect with fellow food lovers.
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North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia