The spice mixture known as sambar masala is widely used in South Indian cooking, notably for the preparation of the dish sambhar, a well-known vegetable stew made with lentils. Sambhar is a savoury and tangy meal that is frequently eaten with rice, vada (deep-fried lentil fritters), idli (steamed rice cakes), or dosa (fermented rice and lentil crepes).
Sambhar masala's precise components and ratios can change based on regional and personal tastes. Coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, mustard seeds, dried red chilies, black peppercorns, turmeric, and curry leaves are some typical spices found in sambhar masala.
The spices are normally dry roasted until fragrant and then pounded into a fine powder to create sambhar masala. A more strong and fragrant blend is produced as a result of this process, which helps the spices unleash their flavours and fragrances.
Sambhar masala gives the sambhar dish depth and complexity. It exudes a flavour profile that combines earthy, somewhat sweet, and gently spicy notes. The sambhar's lentils, veggies, and tamarind are enhanced by the harmonic flavour that the masala's spices combine to produce.
Sambhar masala can be used to flavour various foods, such as vegetable curries and rasam (a tangy soup), even though it is most frequently used in sambhar. It offers a distinctive South Indian flavour that many people adore.
While pre-packaged sambhar masala is readily accessible in stores, some individuals prefer to prepare their own masala at home in order to guarantee freshness and customise the flavours. You have the freedom to modify the spice amounts in your own sambhar masala to suit your taste preferences.
In conclusion, sambhar masala is a spice mixture used in South Indian cookery, particularly for sambhar. It improves the dish's flavours, adding to its distinctive and mouthwatering flavour.
1. What is sambhar masala, exactly?
Ans - Sambhar masala is a traditional Indian spice mixture that is used to flavour some of the country's most well-liked lentil foods, including the daal-like dish sambhar. The basic ingredients in the mixture are coriander that has been dry-roasted and crushed, cumin, fenugreek, curry leaves, black pepper, dried red chilli, and black mustard seeds that have been fried with lentils (generally chana dal or moong dal).
2. Does Sambhar Masala contain nuts like tree nuts or peanuts?
Ans - Peanuts and tree nuts are not included in sambhar masala.
3. How is sambhar masala used?
Ans - After the lentils have simmered for a while, the sambhar masala is normally added towards the conclusion of cooking. Additionally, it is included in the oil that has been tempered with curry leaves, cumin, and black mustard seeds. This is done to enhance the spice flavours and give the meal a depth of complexity.
4. What is the shelf life of sambhar masala?
Ans - Sambhar masala can survive up to six months when kept in an airtight container in a cold, dry location.
5. What are the sambhar masala's health advantages?
Ans - Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients are abundant in sambhar masala, which may aid to lessen chronic inflammation. Sambhar masala's constituents also offer a host of health advantages, including better blood sugar control, pain reduction, and improved digestion.