Sambhar (without Sambhar powder)

Sambhar needs no introduction at all. It is the most preferred dish in a south Indian home. Our house is no exception. We love Sambhar. Even if I make it daily, we are all ready to have it. I make it only once in a week though. Different vegetables  can be added to it like drumstick, radish, brinjal, carrot, turnip, ladies finger(okra) etc,. The sambhar gets it flavor, depending on the vegetable used.  I don't use sambhar powder, which makes it even simple. One of my friend, Kalpana used to love my sambhar so much. She was my neighbor when we were in California. Unfortunately she is with us no more now. So whenever i make sambhar I will always remember her. I made a Turnip sambhar today.

Ingredients
Toor dhal, 1/2 Cup
Vegetable(any of ur choice), 2-3 nos. depending on the size
Tamarind, small lime ball size
Tomatoes, 1 no
Garlic, 5-6 cloves
Coriander powder, 1 tablespoon
Chilli powder, 1 teaspoon
Turmeric powder, 1/2 teaspoon
Asafoetida, a pinch

To temper
Oil, 1 Tablespoon
Mustard seeds , 1/2 teaspoon
Cumin seeds, 1/2 teaspoon
Fenugreek seeds, 1/2 teaspoon
Red Onion, 1 no. (thinly sliced)
Curry leaves, 1 sprig
Cilantro, a bunch to garnish

Directions

1. Cook toor dhal in pressure cooker with tomato and garlic.
2. Soak tamarind in warm water and extract the pulp.
3. Cook vegetable with little salt till they are almost done.
4. In a sauce pan, heat oil, add mustard seeds, cumin seeds and fenugreek seeds. Then add onions, curry leaves and saute it. Also add asafoetida.
5. Add the vegetable to it and then add turmeric powder, chilli powder and coriander powder. Cook till the raw smell is gone.
6. Then mash the cooked toor dhal and add to this. Finally add the tamarind extract and add required salt. Check the consistency of sambhar and add water accordingly.
7. Simmer it for 10-12 minutes.
8. Garnish with Cilantro.