Classic Dal (Bele) Sambar
Rendition: The Dal (bele) Sambar is the staple dish of Kannadigas. This divine sambar goes well with rice, roti, idli, dosa, and so much more. It can be eaten for any meal of the day and never lets you down. The dish is truly close to Kannadigas as it embodies the epitome of our 'Karapudi'; and as legend says it, bele sambar was the very first dish created using 'Karapudi'.
YIELD
Serves 3-4 people
INGREDIENTS
• SpiceKansh ‘Karapudi’ [VIP]
• 1 cup of toor dal (approx. 150 gm)
• 2 large tomatoes (chopped)
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 10-12 curry leaves
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 pinch of asafoetida
• 2 dry red chilli
• Any vegetable such as potato, turnip, radish, etc. [Optional]
• Coriander leaves for garnish
• 500 ml of water
• Salt
Cooking Method: Pressure Cooker (Medium Flame)
PREPARATION
Step 1: In a pressure cooker, add 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee. Bring the temperature up and add in the mustard seeds, asafoetida, dry red chilli, curry leaves, chopped onions and fry for about 1 minute.
Step 2: Add the chopped tomatoes and fry for another minute.
Step 3: Add 1 and a half tablespoons (approx. 25-30 gm) of SpiceKansh ‘Karapudi’and fry for another minute.
Step 4: Add your choice of vegetables. [Optional]
Step 5: Add the toor dal along with the water.
Step 6: Garnish the pot with coriander leaves and add salt to taste.
Step 7: Close the lid and leave it to cook for 3 whistles.
Step 8: Voila!! The dish is now ready to be savoured.
NOTE: Best accompanied with pickles, papads, fritters or any dry side dish. Additional ghee can be added to the rice or sambar itslef to make it richer and exquisite.