Delicious and Healthy Radish Sambar Recipe

Sambar is a classic dish in South Indian cuisine, known for its wholesome flavors and nutritional value. Among the various types of sambar, radish sambar stands out for its unique flavor and health benefits. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, radish sambar is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting and nutritious meal. Whether for lunch or dinner, this dish pairs perfectly with rice, idli, or dosa. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe and learn how to prepare radish sambar effortlessly.

 Why You’ll Love This Radish sambar (Mullangi Sambar) Recipe

Radish sambar is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. Radish, the star ingredient, is low in calories and packed with fiber, making it great for digestion. The combination of tangy tamarind, aromatic spices, and creamy lentils creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Plus, this recipe is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients. With just a few steps, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

 Ingredients You’ll Need for Mullangi Sambar

To prepare radish sambar, gather the following ingredients:

 Main Ingredients:

– 2 medium-sized radishes (top part removed and cut into round slices)

– 1 cup of chana dal (split chickpeas)

– 2 green chilies (slit)

– 2 medium-sized tomatoes (cut into quarters)

– A lemon-sized ball of tamarind (soaked in water)

 Spices and Seasonings:

– 2 teaspoons of coriander powder

– 2 teaspoons of red chili powder

– 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder

– 2 teaspoons of salt (adjust to taste)

 For Tempering:

– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

– 1 teaspoon urad dal (black gram)

– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

– A pinch of fenugreek seeds

– A few curry leaves

– 2 dried red chilies

– 1 medium onion (finely chopped)

– 2 tablespoons of cooking oil

 Garnish:

– Fresh coriander leaves (finely chopped)

 Step-by-Step Preparation of Radish Sambar

 Step 1: Prepare the Chana Dal

1. Wash the chana dal thoroughly and rinse it twice to remove any dirt or impurities.

2. Place the dal in a pressure cooker along with 2 cups of water, 2 slit green chilies, and 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder.

3. Close the cooker lid and cook for 3 whistles on medium heat. Once done, let the pressure release naturally and set the cooked dal aside.

 Step 2: Prepare the Radish

1. In a separate vessel, boil the radish slices with enough water until they turn tender. Avoid cooking radish in the pressure cooker, as it tastes better when boiled separately.

2. While the radish is boiling, keep an eye on the texture and ensure it doesn’t overcook. Set the boiled radish aside.

 Step 3: Prepare the Tamarind Pulp

1. Soak the tamarind in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften it.

2. Mash the tamarind with your fingers to extract the pulp and strain out any seeds or fibers. Keep the tamarind pulp ready for later use.

 Step 4: Cook the Sambar Base

1. In a large pot or vessel, combine the cooked chana dal, boiled radish slices, and tamarind pulp.

2. Add the quartered tomatoes, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.

3. Pour enough water to achieve a medium-thin consistency and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

4. Let the sambar simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend beautifully.

 Step 5: Temper the Sambar

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a small pan over medium heat.

2. Add mustard seeds and let them crackle.

3. Stir in urad dal, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, and dried red chilies. Sauté for a few seconds until aromatic.

4. Toss in the curry leaves and chopped onions. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.

5. Turn off the heat and pour the tempered mixture into the simmering sambar. Stir well.

 Step 6: Final Touches

1. Taste the sambar and adjust the salt or spices if needed.

2. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of freshness.

3. Turn off the flame and serve hot.

 Serving Suggestions

Radish sambar is best enjoyed with steamed rice, idli, or dosa. For a complete South Indian meal, pair it with a side of papad, pickle, and a dollop of ghee. Its tangy and savory flavors make it a comforting dish for any time of the day.

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 Tips for the Perfect Radish Sambar

– Consistency Matters: Sambar should have a medium-thin consistency. Add water gradually to achieve the desired texture.

– Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh radish and tomatoes for the best flavor. Avoid using overly ripe tamarind.

– Balanced Spices: Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste preferences. You can reduce the red chili powder for a milder version.

– Tempering: Don’t skip the tempering step! It adds depth and aroma to the dish.

 Health Benefits of Radish Sambar

– Rich in Fiber: Radish aids digestion and promotes gut health.

– Low in Calories: This makes it an ideal dish for weight management.

– High in Protein: Chana dal provides a good source of plant-based protein.

– Packed with Antioxidants: The spices used in sambar have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

 Conclusion

There you have it—an easy and delicious radish sambar recipe that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. This dish is a beautiful blend of flavors and nutrition, making it a favorite in many households. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding to prepare. Give it a try and watch it become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones, and let us know how it turned out! If you enjoyed this recipe, make sure to subscribe to our blog for more tasty and healthy recipes. Happy cooking