Ingredients:

cup tur dal (toor dal), soaked for 15 minutes 2 tomatoes, chopped 1 onion, chopped Assorted vegetables (e.g., red pumpkin, drumsticks, or any of your choice) 1-2 tbsp sambar powder Salt, as per taste 2 tbsp tamarind paste Fresh coriander leaves, chopped 1-2 tbsp ghee 1 tsp mustard seeds 1 dried red chili A few curry leaves

Optional:

Ground paste of coconut and green chilies for extra thickness and spice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base:

- Soak tur dal for 15 minutes.
- Pressure cook the soaked dal with chopped tomatoes and onions until soft.
- Add Vegetables.
- Transfer the cooked dal mixture to a vessel.
- Add your choice of vegetables (e.g., red pumpkin, drumsticks). Cook until the vegetables are tender.

2. Flavor the Sambar:

- Stir in sambar powder, salt, and tamarind paste.
- Let the mixture boil for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

3. Add Optional Thickener:

- If desired, add a ground paste of coconut and green chilies for extra thickness and spice.

4. Prepare the Tadka (Tempering):

- Heat ghee in a small pan.
- Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Toss in the dried red chili and curry leaves, sauté briefly.
- Pour this tempering over the sambar.

5. Finish with Coriander Leaves:

- Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or idli/dosa!