12 Easy Pressure Cooker Recipes India Loves (Ready in 30 Minutes!)

8. Sambar: South Indian Lentil Stew with Vegetables

Sambar combines cooked lentils with seasonal vegetables and a distinct sambar powder for a tangy, savory stew that pairs perfectly with idli, dosa, or steamed rice. Cook toor dal or masoor dal in the pressure cooker until soft. Separately, sauté mustard seeds, curry leaves, and vegetables such as drumstick, pumpkin, or okra, then add tamarind water and sambar powder and bring to a boil. Mix the cooked dal into the vegetable-tamarind broth and simmer briefly so flavors unify. Finish with a tempering of dry red chilies and mustard seeds in hot oil to add aroma. For a quicker version, use store-bought sambar powder and pre-cut vegetables. Sambar is naturally gluten-free and can be adjusted for heat and thickness. It’s a nourishing option for families and a classic way to introduce South-Indian flavors to North American palates.