Shallot Sambar

Ingredients:

Shallots - 500 gms

Spices for grinding:

Roasted chana dal - 1 tbsp

Coriander seeds - 2 tbsp

Cumin seeds - 2 tsp

Fenugreek seeds - 1/4 tsp

Pepper corns - 1/4 tsp

Red chilies - 10-12

Grated coconut - 1/2 cup

Tamarind - about 1 inch piece

Spices for tempering:

Curry leaves - 1 sprig

Mustard seeds - 1/4 tsp

Asafoetida - 1/8 tsp

Toor dal or Masoor dal - 1 cup

Pictured here are the spices to make the sambar masala. Starting clockwise Red chillies, chana dal, tamarind, coconut, coriander seeds, pepper corns, fenugreek seeds, cumin seeds, cilantro in the center is asafeotida, mustard seeds, curry leaves.

Pictured below is masoor dal and spices for tempering.

Peel the shallots

Roast the masala spices in a pan lightly.

Add the grated coconut and roast till golden brown.

Grind the masala to a smooth paste along with the tamarind and salt.

Pressure cook or boil the dal.

In a pan heat oil, add the mustard seeds, curry leaves and asafoetida. Add the peeled onions and saute them.Cover with a lid to steam for a few minutes.

Once add the cooked daal and ground masala and cook until done. Add chopped cilantro on top.