Quick and Easy Sambar Recipe Using Haldiram’s Sambar Instant Mix: A Step-by-Step Guide

Sambar is an essential part of any South Indian meal, bringing together the flavours of lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices. While making traditional sambar from scratch can take time, Haldiram’s Sambar Instant Mix allows you to create an authentic version of this dish in minutes without compromising on taste. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to prepare delicious sambar at home using Haldiram’s mix, with tips to make it even more flavourful and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Haldiram’s Sambar Instant Mix (180g pack) – The base of the recipe.
• Vegetables (Optional but recommended for extra flavour):
• 1 small carrot, diced
• 1 small potato, diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 4–5 drumsticks (optional, for traditional flavour)
• Oil or Ghee – 1 tablespoon (for tempering)
• Mustard seeds – 1 teaspoon
• Curry leaves – 8–10 fresh leaves
• Dried red chillies – 2 (optional)
• Asafoetida (Hing) – A pinch (optional)
• Water – 4 cups
• Coriander leaves – Freshly chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Authentic Sambar

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

While you can use only the instant mix for a quick sambar, adding fresh vegetables boosts the dish’s flavour and texture. Here’s what to do:

• Wash and peel the vegetables. Dice the carrots, potatoes, and onions, and chop the tomato.
• If using drumsticks, peel and cut them into 2-inch pieces.
• Set the vegetables aside.

Step 2: Boil the Vegetables

Start by cooking the vegetables:

• In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
• Add the diced vegetables and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until they become tender.
• Add a pinch of salt at this stage for extra flavour.

Step 3: Add Haldiram’s Sambar Instant Mix

• Once the vegetables are cooked, add Haldiram’s Sambar Instant Mix to the pot
• Stir well to ensure the mix dissolves evenly in the water, thickening as it cooks.
• Simmer on medium heat for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent lumps.

Step 4: Prepare the Tempering (Tadka)

Tempering adds the final touch of flavour:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of oil or ghee in a small pan over medium flame.
• Add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and let them splutter.
• Add the curry leaves, dried red chillies, and a pinch of asafoetida (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds, ensuring the spices don’t burn.
• Pour this tempering over the simmering sambar and stir.

Step 5: Simmer and Adjust

• Allow the sambar to simmer for another 2–3 minutes after adding the tempering, so the flavours meld together.
• Adjust the consistency by adding more water if necessary, depending on how thick or thin you prefer your sambar.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Turn off the heat and garnish the sambar with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
• Serve hot with steamed rice, idli, dosa, or vada.

Tips for Enhancing Your Sambar

• Add Tamarind: For a tangier taste, add a tablespoon of tamarind paste or soaked tamarind pulp when cooking the vegetables.
• Use Ghee for Tempering: While oil works fine, using ghee for the tempering gives your sambar a richer flavour.
• Incorporate Lentils: For a heartier version, add some boiled toor dal (split pigeon peas) to the sambar before the tempering step.
• Spice It Up: If you prefer extra heat, add a slit green chilli or a pinch of red chilli powder while cooking the vegetables.

What to Serve with Haldiram’s Sambar?

Sambar is incredibly versatile and can be paired with various South Indian dishes:

• Idli: Soft, steamed rice cakes that absorb the sambar beautifully.
• Dosa: Crispy rice crepes that are perfect for dipping into the sambar.
• Vada: Crunchy lentil doughnuts, traditionally served with sambar.
• Rice: Serve sambar over steamed rice for a comforting and filling meal.

Feel free to get creative and experiment with different accompaniments!

Why Choose Haldiram’s Sambar Instant Mix?

• 1.Convenience: Traditional sambar can take hours to prepare, but with Haldiram’s mix, you can have it ready in just 15–20 minutes.
• 2.Authentic Flavour: The blend of spices in Haldiram’s mix ensures that your sambar tastes like it’s been slow-cooked for hours.
• 3.Customisable: You can easily adjust the spice level, consistency, and even add extra ingredients to suit your taste.
• 4.Perfect for Busy Lifestyles: Whether you’re short on time or simply want to enjoy authentic South Indian flavours with minimal effort, this instant mix is ideal.

Conclusion

With Haldiram’s Sambar Instant Mix, preparing authentic sambar at home is a breeze. Whether you’re pairing it with idli, dosa, or rice, this mix delivers the traditional taste of South Indian sambar with just a few simple steps. It’s the perfect solution for busy cooks who still want to enjoy a flavourful, homemade meal. Next time you’re craving a comforting South Indian dish, reach for Haldiram’s Sambar Instant Mix and have it ready in no time!

FAQ

Can I make sambar without adding vegetables?

Yes, you can prepare sambar using only Haldiram’s Instant Mix, but adding vegetables will enhance the flavour and nutritional value.

How long does it take to prepare sambar with Haldiram’s Instant Mix?

It takes around 15–20 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a quick meal.

Can I store leftover sambar?

Yes, you can refrigerate leftover sambar in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.

Can I add lentils to the instant mix sambar?

Though the mix contains lentils, you can add extra cooked toor dal for a more substantial sambar.