This Moringa Drumstick Sambar is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from the moringa drumsticks and other wholesome ingredients.
(1)Cooking Dal: Pressure cook the soaked toor dal with turmeric powder until it becomes soft and mushy. Mash it well and set aside.
(2)Preparing Tamarind Extract: Extract tamarind juice from the soaked tamarind. Strain the extract to remove any pulp or seeds.
(3)Cooking Drumsticks: In a separate pot, cook the moringa drumsticks in water until they are tender. Drain and set aside.
(4)Making Sambar Base: In a large pot, heat oil. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, asafoetida, dried red chilies, and curry leaves for tempering. Allow them to splutter. Add chopped onions, green chilies, and grated ginger. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
(5)Adding Tomatoes and Sambar Powder: Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft. Then, add sambar powder and mix well.
(6)Incorporating Tamarind Extract: Pour the tamarind extract into the pot. Add salt and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the raw smell of tamarind disappears.
(7)Adding Cooked Drumsticks and Dal: Add the cooked drumsticks and mashed toor dal to the tamarind mixture. Stir well and let it simmer for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
(8)Adjusting Consistency: Adjust the consistency of the sambar by adding water if needed. It should have a medium-thick consistency.
(9)Garnishing: Garnish the sambar with chopped coriander leaves.
(10)Tempering (Tadka): In a small pan, heat a little oil. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, dried red chilies, and curry leaves for the tadka. Pour this tempering over the sambar.