Idli-Sambar Recipe - Classic Indian Breakfast

Photo by Ranga on Unsplash

Introduction

Idli-Sambar is one of the most loved and iconic breakfast dishes in South India. Known for its soft, fluffy idlis served with a flavorful and aromatic sambar, this dish is not only delicious but also healthy and nutritious. Perfect for starting your day on the right note, Idli-Sambar is easy to make with a little planning and practice.

Preparation Time

• Soaking & Fermentation: 8-12 hours
• Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Ingredients

For Idli

• 1 cup urad dal (split black gram)
• 2 cups idli rice
• 1 tsp fenugreek seeds
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

For Sambar

• 1 cup toor dal (pigeon peas)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1/2 cup vegetables (like carrots, drumsticks, pumpkin)
• 2 tbsp tamarind pulp
• 2 tsp sambar powder
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• Few curry leaves
• 2 dried red chilies
• 1 tbsp oil
• Salt to taste

How to Make Idli-Sambar

Step-by-Step Idli Recipe

1. Soak: Rinse and soak urad dal and fenugreek seeds together. Separately soak idli rice for 4-6 hours.
2. Grind: Blend soaked urad dal to a smooth batter and idli rice to a coarse batter. Mix them together.
3. Ferment: Add salt, cover, and let the batter ferment overnight (8-12 hours) in a warm place.
4. Steam: Pour the batter into greased idli molds and steam for 10-15 minutes. Let cool slightly before serving.

Step-by-Step Sambar Recipe

1. Cook Dal: Rinse and cook toor dal in a pressure cooker until soft. Mash it well.
2. Prepare Vegetables: Heat oil in a pan, temper mustard seeds, curry leaves, and red chilies. Sauté onions, then add tomatoes and vegetables.
3. Add Spices: Mix in sambar powder, tamarind pulp, and salt. Cook for 5-10 minutes.
4. Combine: Add mashed dal and enough water to get the desired consistency. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Tips for Making Perfect Idli-Sambar

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh dal, rice, and vegetables for the best taste.
• Fermentation: Ensure the batter ferments well for soft and fluffy idlis. A warm environment helps.
• Sambar Variations: Experiment with different vegetables like brinjal, radish, or okra for unique flavors.
• Consistency: Keep sambar medium-thick for the perfect blend with idlis.
• Serve Hot: Idlis and sambar taste best when served fresh and hot.

Variations

• Rava Idli: Replace rice with semolina (rava) for an instant version.
• Mini Idlis: Make bite-sized idlis for kids or parties.
• Coconut Sambar: Add ground coconut paste for a rich, creamy sambar.

Try this recipe and share your thoughts in the comments. Idli-Sambar is more than just a dish; it’s a wholesome experience of South Indian cuisine!