If you've ever been captivated by the mouthwatering aroma and comforting taste of sambhar, then you know that sambhar masala is its true magic. This spice mix is the heart of this beloved South Indian dish, combining bold, earthy flavors with a hint of warmth and zest. In this blog, I'll take you through the recipe for sambhar masala and how you can use it to create a soul-satisfying sambhar at home.
Sambhar masala is a fragrant spice blend that forms the backbone of sambhar, a tangy and spiced lentil stew with vegetables. This masala is a mixture of roasted spices, each adding its unique essence, and it's the reason why sambhar tastes so irresistibly good.
Ingredients
To make your own sambhar masala, you'll need these essentials:
- 1/2 cup coriander seeds
- 2 tablespoons cumin seeds
- 2 tablespoons chana dal (split Bengal gram)
- 2 tablespoons urad dal (black gram)
- 8–10 dried red chilies (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 teaspoons fenugreek seeds
- 2 teaspoons mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- A handful of curry leaves
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- 1/4 cup grated dry coconut (optional, for extra richness)
Recipe
- Dry Roasting: Heat a heavy-bottomed pan over low to medium heat. Dry roast the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, chana dal, urad dal, fenugreek seeds, mustard seeds, peppercorns, and dried chilies one after the other until fragrant and slightly golden. Be sure not to burn them, as it will affect the flavor.
- Add Curry Leaves and Hing: Toss in the curry leaves and asafoetida. Roast briefly until the curry leaves turn crisp.
- Optional Coconut: If you're using dry coconut, roast it until it's golden and aromatic. This step is optional but adds a touch of richness to the masala..
- Cool and Grind: Let the roasted ingredients cool completely. Transfer them to a spice grinder or blender and grind them into a fine powder.
- Store the Masala: Store the freshly made sambhar masala in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It'll last for weeks, ready to turn your sambhar into a flavorful masterpiece.
How to Use Sambhar Masala?
When making sambhar, simply add 1–2 tablespoons of sambhar masala to your pot of lentils and vegetables. Let it simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Why Make Sambhar Masala at Home?
Homemade sambhar masala not only elevates the taste of your sambhar but also ensures that you're using fresh and high-quality ingredients. Plus, you can customize it to suit your spice tolerance and flavor preference.
So, there you have it—the secret to sambhar that tastes just like it came from a South Indian kitchen. Try this recipe at home and let me know how it turns out! Whether it's served with steaming rice, fluffy idlis, or crispy dosas, sambhar with homemade sambhar masala is a taste of culinary bliss.
