Sambar Rice – A Comforting Bowl of Memories

 

It was during the time of the pandemic and working from home that I rediscovered the simplicity and joy of food. My parents, both retired, had always been light eaters during the evenings, mostly settling for tiffins or light meals. But on those days when my mom would make a curry or vegetable chutney (like roti pachadi) with hot rice for dinner, it felt like a feast. And let me tell you, my love for roti pachadi is something unexpressable 😊. But that’s a story for another post.

One evening, I decided to make a simple one-pot sambar rice in the cooker. No frills, just the basics. My dad loved it. Now, talking about my dad, he had lost a few of his teeth (I take the responsibility 😅; again due to a dish I made) and dad was stubborn about getting them replaced, even at an age where it would have been simpler. As a result, he had to avoid some heavy chewing foods like chapati. But this sambar rice, filled with dollops of ghee and hot and delicious dal and rice combo, was comforting for both of us, and we would end up saying “ummm” after every bite 🤤. It became his favorite dinner, and he wanted it almost every day.

Over time, though, the dish evolved. What was once packed with fresh veggies started becoming frozen veggies, and at times, tomato was the sole veggie. My mom used to make tamarind paste at home and refrigerate it to make my life easier, a small gesture of love that I will always cherish ❤️. You know, mothers; they speak only one language, and that is pure love, no matter how they show it.

But of course, my version of the dish wasn’t always the healthiest (only for my plate; my dad wouldn't hesitate one bit to say no in my face if it wasn't healthy). I would sometimes throw in chips, french fries—basically, anything that added a bit of crunch and indulgence 😜. I also used the 777 brand sambar powder for its extra spiciness and that amazing taste. It became the secret to my quick fixes. However, my mother started making sambar powder at home for easing my job... aw, Amma!

Reflecting on it all now, I realize just how many memories I built around that humble bowl of sambar rice during the lockdown. Nearly every day for two years, this dish became a constant presence in my life, and it will always remind me of those days spent with my parents. 💕I don't mind having that as my dinner forever!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rice
• 1 cup toor dal (pigeon peas)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 potato, diced
• 4-5 french beans
• 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  
• 1 spring curry leaves
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon tamarind paste (or to taste)
• 3 tablespoons sambar powder (I love using 777 brand, but you can use homemade sambar powder too!)
• Salt, to taste
• 4 cups water
• Asafoetida (I use GD brand)

Instructions:

In a cooker, heat some oil. Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter before adding asafoetida, the chopped tomatoes and turmeric powder. Cook them until the tomatoes soften. Next, add the diced carrots, potatoes, french beans and any other veggies you like. Stir and let them cook for about 2-3 minutes.

After that, add the sambar powder, tamarind paste, and salt to the mix. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes so the spices blend in. Then, add the rice and toor dal mixture and stir everything together.

Pour in enough water to cover the rice and dal, around 4 cups, and close the lid of the cooker. Give it 3-4 whistles on medium heat. Once it's done, open the lid and add generous dollops of ghee. Stir it in gently.

Serve hot and enjoy your comforting, flavorful bowl of Sambar Rice!

Srishti’s Secret Tip for the Perfect Sambar Rice:

The secret to an amazing sambar rice lies in the freshness of the sambar powder and tamarind paste. While I do love my quick fixes with store-bought sambar powder, homemade sambar powder can elevate the taste so much more. If you have the time, grind your own sambar masala with fresh spices. It makes a world of difference! Also, don’t skimp on the ghee—it’s a must for that rich, comforting flavor 😍.

Srishti’s Healing Tip for the Perfect Plate:

Sambar rice isn’t just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl. When you're feeling low, stressed, or just in need of comfort, this dish brings a sense of warmth and connection. The ghee, the soft rice, and the perfectly blended spices come together to soothe both your soul and your body. It's the kind of meal that speaks of care and love, like a mother’s embrace. In every bite, you will find a little piece of home. And trust me, when you have a bowl of this in front of you, it feels like everything is going to be okay.

Why You Will Love It:

This sambar rice is the perfect blend of convenience and flavor. It’s a one-pot wonder that comes together quickly without compromising on taste. The richness of the sambar powder and the tangy kick of tamarind combine to give you a dish that’s packed with layers of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something satisfying to enjoy during lazy weekends, sambar rice fits the bill. It’s hearty, yet light enough to not leave you feeling too full—making it the perfect balance of comfort and freshness. Plus, it's a dish that can be customized with whatever veggies you have on hand, so you’re always just a few ingredients away from a delicious, fulfilling meal!