How to make yummy Idli and Sambar easily at home.

About for Idli and Sambar

Idli and Sambar are a classic breakfast dish that originated in South India but has now become popular all over the world. Idli is a steamed rice cake made from a batter of fermented rice and lentils. It is a healthy and nutritious food that is low in calories, fat, and cholesterol. Sambar, on the other hand, is a lentil and vegetable stew that is typically served with idlis. It is a flavorful and filling dish that is rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins.

Idlis are made by soaking rice and lentils, grinding them into a smooth batter, and then fermenting the batter overnight. The batter is then poured into idli molds and steamed until cooked. Sambar is made by boiling lentils with vegetables and a blend of spices to create a flavorful broth. The dish is often served with coconut chutney and/or spicy tomato chutney to complement the flavors.

Idli and sambar are not only delicious but also a healthy breakfast option, as they are low in fat and high in protein and fiber. They are also gluten-free, making them a great option for people with gluten allergies or sensitivities.

Additionally, idli and sambar can be customized to suit individual tastes by varying the types of lentils or vegetables used in the sambar or by adding different spices and seasonings. Overall, idli and sambar are a versatile and nutritious breakfast option that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and dietary preferences. Here’s a recipe for making idli and sambar at home

Ingredients for Idli:

• 2 cups of idli rice
• 1/2 cup of urad dal (skinned black gram)
• 1 tsp fenugreek seeds
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

Ingredients for sambar:

• 1 cup of toor dal (split pigeon peas)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 potato, chopped
• 1 drumstick, cut into pieces (optional)
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• Tamarind pulp (size of a lemon)
• 2 tbsp oil
• Coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions for idli:

1. Wash and soak the idli rice and urad dal separately in water for at least 4-5 hours.
2. Soak the fenugreek seeds along with the urad dal.
3. Drain the water from both the rice and urad dal, and grind them separately in a wet grinder until smooth.
4. Mix the two batters together and add salt to taste. Mix well.
5. Cover the batter and keep it in a warm place for at least 8-10 hours, or until the batter has fermented and doubled in volume.
6. Grease the idli plates with oil and pour the batter into the plates, filling each mold 3/4 full.
7. Steam the idlis in a steamer for 10-12 minutes or until they are cooked.
8. Remove the idlis from the steamer and let them cool for a few minutes before removing them from the plates.

Instructions for sambar:

1. Wash and pressure cook the toor dal with 2 cups of water until it is soft and mushy.
2. Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds and cumin seeds.
3. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
4. Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Sauté for a few minutes until the tomatoes are soft.
5. Add chopped vegetables, salt, and enough water to cover them. Cover the pan and cook until the vegetables are tender.
6. Add the cooked dal, tamarind pulp and enough water to get the desired consistency. Bring the sambar to a boil.
7. Simmer the sambar for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot with idlis.

That’s it! Your idlis and sambar are ready to serve. This recipe can serve 4-6 people and can be adjusted according to your taste preferences. Enjoy!

Nutritional value of Idli Samber

Idli and sambar are a nutritious breakfast dish that offer several health benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value of idli and sambar:

Idli:

• Calories: 39 per idli (approx.)
• Carbohydrates: 8 grams per idli
• Protein: 1 gram per idli
• Fat: 0.2 grams per idli
• Fiber: 1 gram per idli
• Vitamins and minerals: Idlis are a good source of B vitamins, particularly thiamine (B1) and riboflavin (B2), as well as iron.

Idlis are low in calories and fat, making them a healthy breakfast option. They are also gluten-free and a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Sambar:

• Calories: 90 per serving (1 cup approx.)
• Carbohydrates: 15 grams per serving
• Protein: 4 grams per serving
• Fat: 2 grams per serving
• Fiber: 4 grams per serving
• Vitamins and minerals: Sambar is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as iron and potassium.

Sambar is a nutritious and filling dish that is high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is also low in fat and calories, making it a healthy addition to a balanced diet.

Overall, idli and sambar make for a nutritious breakfast that is low in calories and fat, and high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, they are gluten-free and can be customized with different vegetables and spices to suit individual tastes and preferences.

Health Benefits

Idli and Sambar, a classic South Indian combination, offer several health benefits due to their nutritious ingredients. Here are some of the health benefits of these dishes:

Health Benefits of Idli:

1. Nutrient-Rich: Idli is made from fermented rice and urad dal batter, providing essential nutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, dietary fiber, and B-vitamins.
2. Easily Digestible: The fermentation process breaks down complex carbohydrates and proteins, making idlis light on the stomach and easily digestible.
3. Low in Fat: Idlis are steamed rather than fried, making them low in fat and suitable for those watching their calorie intake.
4. Gluten-Free and Vegan: Idlis are naturally gluten-free and vegan, making them suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance or following a plant-based diet.
5. Rich in Probiotics: Fermented foods like idli promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, aiding digestion and supporting gut health.

Health Benefits of Sambar:

1. Vegetable-Rich: Sambar is prepared with a variety of vegetables, providing a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
2. Protein Source: The addition of lentils (usually toor dal) in sambar enhances its protein content, promoting muscle health and overall body functions.
3. Balanced Flavor Profile: Sambar incorporates spices like turmeric, coriander, cumin, and mustard seeds, offering anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
4. Blood Sugar Regulation: The combination of lentils, vegetables, and spices in sambar can help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for individuals with diabetes.
5. Boosts Immunity: The presence of garlic, onions, and curry leaves in sambar may support immune function and help combat infections.

Together, Idli and Sambar form a wholesome and nutritious meal that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential nutrients. Their low-fat and fiber-rich nature, along with the potential probiotic benefits of fermented foods, contribute to their reputation as a healthy and delicious Indian dish.

Tips and Tricks

Tips and Tricks for Making Idli and Sambar:

For Idli:

1. Proper Fermentation: To ensure soft and fluffy idlis, allow the batter to ferment well. Ferment it in a warm place for at least 8-10 hours or overnight, depending on the weather conditions.
2. Correct Water Ratio: Use the right amount of water while grinding the rice and urad dal to achieve the ideal idli batter consistency. The batter should be smooth, thick, and slightly fluffy.
3. Addition of Poha: Adding a handful of soaked poha (flattened rice) while grinding the batter enhances the softness and texture of the idlis.
4. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh urad dal and rice for better fermentation and flavor. Avoid using stale ingredients to achieve the best results.
5. Steamer Preparation: Grease the idli molds lightly with oil before pouring the batter. Place a cloth or small muslin cloth in the steamer to prevent water droplets from falling on the idlis during steaming.

For Sambar:

1. Variety of Vegetables: Use a mix of vegetables like carrots, beans, drumsticks, potatoes, and eggplant to add a diverse range of flavors and nutrients to the sambar.
2. Roasting Spices: Dry roast the sambar spices like coriander seeds, cumin, fenugreek seeds, and dried red chilies to enhance their aroma and taste.
3. Tamarind Pulp: Soak tamarind in warm water and extract the pulp to add a tangy flavor to the sambar. Adjust the quantity of tamarind according to your taste preference.
4. Cooking Dal: Cook the toor dal until soft and mushy. You can also add a pinch of turmeric powder and a few drops of oil while cooking toor dal to aid in the softening process.
5. Tempering: Prepare the tempering (tadka) with mustard seeds, cumin seeds, curry leaves, and asafoetida in ghee or oil. Pour the tempering over the sambar for added aroma and taste.
6. Garnish: Garnish the sambar with fresh coriander leaves to add a burst of freshness to the dish just before serving.

With these tips and tricks, you can master the art of making soft and delicious idlis and flavorful sambar, creating a perfect combination for a traditional South Indian meal. Enjoy this wholesome and comforting dish with your favorite accompaniments.

Serving Suggestions

Idli and Sambar is a classic South Indian combination that offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Here’s a serving suggestion to make the most of this delicious duo:

Serving Suggestion for Idli and Sambar:

1. Arrange the Idlis: Place the steamed idlis on a serving plate. Idlis are soft and fluffy rice cakes that are a staple in South Indian cuisine.
2. Serve the Sambar: In a separate bowl or serving vessel, place the piping hot sambar. Sambar is a flavorful lentil-based vegetable stew with aromatic spices.
3. Coconut Chutney: Accompany the idlis and sambar with a bowl of coconut chutney. Coconut chutney is a creamy and slightly tangy condiment made from fresh coconut, green chilies, and other ingredients.
4. Ghee or Oil: Offer a small bowl of ghee (clarified butter) or sesame oil on the side. Some people enjoy dipping their idlis into ghee or drizzling a few drops of oil over them for added richness.
5. Garnish: Optionally, garnish the sambar with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves. This adds a burst of color and freshness.
6. Serve Hot: Idlis and sambar are best enjoyed when served hot and fresh. Make sure to serve them immediately after preparing.
7. Enjoy the Combination: Encourage your guests to break the idlis into pieces and dip them into the sambar and coconut chutney. The combination of soft idlis soaked in flavorful sambar and accompanied by the cooling chutney is simply delightful.
8. Traditional Presentation: For an authentic touch, you can present the idlis on a banana leaf or a traditional South Indian steel plate.
9. Accompany with Filter Coffee: To complete the South Indian experience, consider serving the idli-sambar combo with a cup of traditional South Indian filter coffee.

Remember, these serving suggestions are meant to enhance your dining experience, and you can customize them based on your preferences. Enjoy your Idli and Sambar meal, a true South Indian culinary delight!

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