The Ultimate Guide on How to Cook Sambar in a Pressure Cooker
Written By Avi Green
When it comes to authentic South Indian cuisine, sambar holds a special place in every household. In this article, we will dive deep into how to cook sambar in a pressure cooker, transforming your kitchen into a haven of aromatic and delightful flavors. Whether you are a novice cook or an experienced chef, these detailed steps will make the process straightforward and enjoyable.
What is Sambar?
Sambar is a vibrant South Indian lentil-based vegetable stew made with pigeon peas, tamarind, and a special blend of spices. Traditionally, it accompanies dishes like idli, dosa, and rice, making it a versatile addition to any meal. The beauty of sambar lies in its rich, tangy, and spicy flavor profile, which is achieved by using a variety of vegetables, lentils, and a secret ingredient or two. When you learn how to cook sambar in a pressure cooker, you unlock the ability to infuse these robust flavors efficiently, reducing both cooking time and effort.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 1 cup Toor Dal (split pigeon peas)
- 2 tablespoons Oil
- 1 teaspoon Mustard Seeds
- 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon Hing (Asafoetida)
- 1 Onion, finely chopped
- 1 Tomato, finely chopped
- 2 Green Chilies, slit lengthwise
- 1 Carrot, diced
- 1 Potato, diced
- 6-8 Drumsticks, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 10-12 Okra, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
- 2 tablespoons Sambar Powder
- 1 tablespoon Tamarind Pulp
- Salt to taste
- A handful of Cilantro, chopped
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Cook Sambar in a Pressure Cooker
1. Preparation of Ingredients
Before diving into how to cook sambar in a pressure cooker, it's essential to have all your ingredients prepared. Wash 1 cup of toor dal under running water until the water runs clear. Meanwhile, chop all the vegetables and keep them aside. This step ensures that the cooking process is smooth and efficient.
2. Cooking Toor Dal in the Pressure Cooker
Begin by placing the washed dal in the pressure cooker with 2 cups of water, a pinch of turmeric powder, and a few drops of oil. Seal the pressure cooker and cook the dal on a high flame for about 3-4 whistles, which usually takes around 10-15 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the cooker. If you are new to using a pressure cooker, check out this guide on using a pressure cooker.
3. Preparing the Masala Base
While the dal is cooking, take a frying pan and heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds, letting them splutter. Then, incorporate a pinch of hing, followed by finely chopped onions and green chilies. Saut until the onions are golden brown. Add finely chopped tomatoes and cook until they become mushy.
4. Adding Vegetables and Spices
Transfer the sauted masala base to the same pressure cooker containing the cooked dal. Now, add the diced carrots, potatoes, drumsticks, and okra to the cooker. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 2 tablespoons of sambar powder, and salt to taste. Mix everything well and add 2 more cups of water to achieve the desired consistency. For a step-by-step guide on another pressure cooker dish, you might like this guide on cooking rice.
5. Pressure Cooking Sambar
Seal the pressure cooker again and cook the mixture on medium flame for 2 whistles, which takes approximately 5-7 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally, revealing a beautifully aromatic and colorful sambar inside. Remember, learning how to cook sambar in a pressure cooker is about balancing flavors and textures, which this method perfects.
6. Incorporating Tamarind and Cilantro
Once the steam has subsided, open the pressure cooker and stir in 1 tablespoon of tamarind pulp. Simmer the sambar for a few more minutes to let the tamarind blend seamlessly into the flavors. Finally, garnish with a handful of chopped cilantro for a fresh and authentic finish.
7. Serving Your Sambar
Congratulations! You have mastered how to cook sambar in a pressure cooker. Serve the sambar hot with idli, dosa, or steamed rice for a delectable South Indian feast. Don't forget to have some papadam or fritters on the side for added crunch and enjoyment.
Expert Tips and Tricks
Creating the perfect sambar is an art that can be perfected with a few expert tips and tricks. Firstly, the choice of vegetables can be flexible based on what you have at home. While traditional sambar uses drumsticks, carrots, and okra, feel free to experiment with other vegetables like eggplant, pumpkin, or even radish. Secondly, adjusting the tamarind pulp quantity can control the tanginess according to your preference. Lastly, store-bought sambar powder is convenient, but consider making your own for a richer, more personalized flavor.
Cleaning and Maintenance of Cookware
Maintaining your cookware is crucial for the longevity of your kitchen tools. After preparing your delicious sambar, ensure to clean your pressure cooker and other utensils diligently. We recommend using a reliable cookware cleaner for your pressure cooker and a specialized cutting board oil to maintain the quality of your wooden cutting board.
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Conclusion
Embarking on the journey of how to cook sambar in a pressure cooker not only makes the process quick and efficient but also ensures you retain the authentic flavors that are the hallmark of South Indian cuisine. This method allows you to enjoy a wholesome, comforting bowl of sambar with minimum fuss, making it perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends. Try this recipe today and savor the delightful essence of homemade sambar.
