Butternut Squash Sambar
Loaded with a rainbow of vegetables and protein-packed toor dal (split pigeon peas), sambar is a comforting South Indian stew that’s tangy with tamarind and typically served for breakfast topped with a spicy, crunchy tadka (spiced ghee or oil). Sambar powder, the namesake of the dish, is a mix of fragrant spices like coriander and cumin, and pulses such as roasted chana dal and urad dal. Toast your spices and grind them for a fragrant and fresh homemade sambar powder. You can also use the jarred spice mix available at Indian markets. In addition to sunny butternut squash and the other suggested vegetables, feel free to swap in or add others like green beans or eggplant. Serve sambar with idli and coconut chutney; dosas; or rice.
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