By Garima Johar
March 14, 2026
Sambar sadam is a South Indian staple made with rice, dal, vegetables, and a blend of spices. Originating from Tamil Nadu, sambar sadam is a comforting, protein-rich meal. Here’s how to make it at home.
1 cup rice ½ cup toor dal ½ tsp turmeric powder 3 cups water For Tempering: 1 tbsp oil ½ tsp mustard seeds 1 dried red chilli 1 sprig curry leaves 2 tbsp coriander leaves
For Sambar: 2 tbsp oil ½ tsp mustard seeds 1 tsp cumin seeds 1 dried red chilli 1 sprig curry leaves 1 onion 1 tomato ½ cup tamarind extract 2 tbsp sambar powder ½ tsp red chilli powder ½ tsp asafoetida Salt to taste 1½ cups mixed vegetables 3 cups water
Wash and pressure cook rice, dal, turmeric, and water for 4-5 whistles. Mash slightly.
Heat some oil and temper mustard seeds, cumin seeds, red chilli, and curry leaves.
Add onions, tomatoes, tamarind extract, sambar powder, chilli powder, hing, and salt. Cook till tender.
Add mashed rice-dal mixture with water and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
Temper some more mustard seeds, red chilli, and curry leaves. Pour it over sambar sadam.
Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot.