How to Make Sambhar Without Toor Dal: Exploring Creative Alternatives

Are you a fan of spicy, tangy sambar but want to make it without the traditional toor dal? You're in luck! This article explores various creative ways to make sambhar without toor dal, from using other dals to relying solely on vegetables.

Ingredients and Instructions

Ingredients needed for a sambhar that you can make without toor dal: Big onions - 2 roughly chopped Ripened tomatoes - 3 medium sized Chilli powder - 1/2 tsp Sambar powder - 1/2 tsp Salt as per need Green chillies - 2 Garlic cloves - 8-10 Roasted bengal gram powder - 2 tbsp Asafoetida /hing - 1/2 tsp Oil - 3-4 tbsp Mustard seeds - 1 tsp Sombu/saunf - 1/2 tsp Red chillies - 2 Some curry leaves Some chopped coriander

Recipe

Take a pressure cooker and add roughly chopped onions, green chillies, garlic, and chilli powders (sambar powder, needed salt) with 2 cups of water. Pressure cook for one whistle. Switch off and open the pressure cooker when the pressure is released. Add the onion mixture alone and grind smoothly. Reserve the cooked water. In a kadai, add oil and splutter mustard and sombu with red chillies and curry leaves. Add asafoetida, then the ground mixture with the reserved water slurry and roasted gram flour. Keep it ready. When the sambar boils, add the slurry and leave to thicken. When the sambar reaches the desired consistency, add chopped coriander and serve hot with idli or dosa.

Exploring Alternatives for Toor Dal

While toor dal is a traditional staple in sambhar, there are several alternatives you can use to achieve a similar delicious result.

1. Using Other Dals

Moong dal:

This cooks faster than toor dal and has a similar texture. Simply substitute moong dal in a 1:1 ratio for toor dal in your usual sambar recipe.

Chana dal:

This dal has a different texture and a slightly nuttier flavor. You can add it in addition to other dals or use it alone for a thicker sambar. Just keep in mind that chana dal takes longer to cook so soak it for at least 30 minutes before using.

Masoor dal:

Another good option with a slightly earthy flavor. Use it in a 1:1 ratio or slightly less as it cooks faster than toor dal.

2. Without Any Dal

Vegetable sambar:

This is a lighter and quicker version of sambar relying on vegetables like carrots, beans, and drumsticks for body and flavor. You can also add in some grated yam or pumpkin for thickening.

Tiffin sambar:

This is a quick and simple version of sambar often made without dal and with less spice. It's perfect for a light breakfast or snack. You can find many recipes online for tiffin sambar.

Here are some tips for making sambar without toor dal: Adjust the sambar powder: Since toor dal contributes to the flavor and body of sambar, you may need to adjust the amount of sambar powder used. Use a little less if you’re not using any dal or you can add other spices like coriander powder, cumin powder, or turmeric to compensate. Use more vegetables: Vegetables will add body and flavor to your sambar without dal. Choose a variety of vegetables that you like and cook them until they are tender. Don’t forget the tamarind: Tamarind is essential for the tangy flavor of sambar. You can use tamarind extract paste or even lemon juice in a pinch. Tempering is key: The tempering with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and other spices adds aroma and flavor to your sambar. Don’t skip it!

No matter which method you choose, you can definitely make a delicious and satisfying sambhar without toor dal. Get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients to find your perfect recipe!