Idli Sambar Recipe – Soft Idli with Flavorful South Indian Sambar
Idli Sambar is a classic South Indian dish enjoyed for breakfast across India and worldwide, especially in the USA. This combination of soft, fluffy idlis and aromatic, tangy sambar is not only delicious but also nutritious. Follow this restaurant-style Idli Sambar recipe to recreate the authentic flavors at home!
Ingredients for Idli and Sambar
For Idli Batter:
- 2 cups idli rice (or parboiled rice)
- ½ cup urad dal (split black gram)
- 1 tbsp poha (flattened rice)
- ½ tsp fenugreek seeds (methi)
- 1 tsp salt
- Water (as needed)
For Sambar:
- ½ cup toor dal (pigeon pea lentils)
- 1 small onion (sliced)
- 1 small tomato (chopped)
- ½ cup mixed vegetables (carrots, drumsticks, pumpkin, etc.)
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- 1 tbsp sambar powder
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp tamarind paste
- 1 tbsp oil
- 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
- Salt (to taste)
- Water (as needed)
How to Make Soft Idli & Sambar
Step 1: Prepare Idli Batter
- Wash and soak rice, urad dal, poha, and fenugreek seeds in water for 6-8 hours.
- Grind the soaked mixture to a smooth batter, adding water as needed.
- Transfer to a bowl, add salt, and let it ferment overnight (8-12 hours).
- Once fermented, stir the batter and it’s ready for steaming.
Step 2: Steam the Idlis
- Grease the idli molds and pour the batter into them.
- Steam in an idli steamer or Instant Pot for 10-12 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Remove and let them cool slightly before taking them out.
Step 3: Prepare Sambar
- Pressure cook toor dal with 2 cups water and turmeric powder until soft. Mash it well.
- Heat oil in a pan, add mustard seeds, curry leaves, and onions. Sauté for 2 minutes.
- Add tomatoes, mixed vegetables, salt, and sambar powder. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Add mashed toor dal, tamarind paste, and 2 cups water. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve hot, fluffy idlis with steaming sambar and coconut chutney.
- Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at home!
Why This Recipe Works?
✔️ Authentic South Indian Taste – Just like a restaurant!
✔️ Soft & Fluffy Idlis – Perfectly fermented for the best texture.
✔️ Rich & Aromatic Sambar – Balanced flavors for an irresistible taste.
FAQs
🔹 Can I store Idli batter?
Yes! You can refrigerate the batter for 3-4 days and use it fresh.
🔹 What vegetables can I use in sambar?
Carrots, drumsticks, pumpkin, eggplant, and beans work great!
🔹 How do I make idlis softer?
Use well-fermented batter, and don’t over-steam.
Final Thoughts
Now, try this authentic Idli Sambar recipe and enjoy a perfect, healthy South Indian breakfast at home! Whether you’re in the USA or anywhere in the world, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds. 😋🔥
