Friday, June 22, 2007

Sambhar Powder

My first attempts at cooking always involved using Sambhar Powder. The mere fact that I had Sambhar Powder prepared by ammayi in the pantry gave me a lot of confidence! This is how my ammayi prepares it and there is a whole host of people including my mom and aunt who cannot survive without it. Linda, here it is specially for you.

1. Red Chillies - 4 Cups
2. Corriander Seeds - 1 1/2 Cups
3. Kadalai Paruppu (Chana Dal/Black Gram Dal) - 1 tbsp
4. Urad Dal (Black Gram Dal) - 1 tbsp
5. Cumin - 1/2 tbsp
6. Pepper - 1 tsp
7. Methi Seeds - 1 tbsp
8. Asfoetida - 1/2 tsp
9. Mustard seeds (black, Indian variety small ones) - 1/2 tsp
10. Curry leaves (fresh or dried) - 2 Sprigs

Tip: Dry all the ingredients in the sun for about 2 hours (optional)

Roast each of the ingredients one by one in a medium low flame, till they turn color slightly. As they get roasted they start to get a darker color, at this point stop. Do not let them turn black (have to throw away if they turn black).

If fresh, pat dry the curry leaves and then roast till brittle.

Let cool to room temperature. Mix and grind together in a blender to a powder. If using a coffee grinder, powder in small batches.


  1. Since the time I started making instant sambhar powder (recipe on the blog) I have stopped making them in bulk....... but your recipe urges me to make some and keep for quqick cooking. :)

  2. ISG, I always wished I knew your real name... you seem as a sister :) Sending a big hug and THANK you! to you and your ammayi, too :)

    What a gift! I can't wait to make it :):)

  3. I have never made sambar powder. Somehow my mom and MIL keep sending me... One day, when necessity calls this recipe may come handy ;)

  4. Oh, I love when secret recipes are shared. I've bookmarked it :)

  5. Sandeepa, Ammayi that is how we call mom's mom.

  6. I never tried making sambhar powder too,for now amma sends it:) but the day i need to then i know i will come here and read the recipe and make it on my own,thanks for sharing:)

  7. I too make Sambar powder with the same ingredients. Ur powder has got a good colour Indo. What chillies do u use round or long?

  8. I of sambar powder - can't wait to try this recipe! Your nani's recipe, gotta be special!

  9. That should have read - "I am almost out of" sambar powder...that is what happens when you look at the keyboard and type... :-)

  10. Anitha, thanks, I have been breaking my head trying to figuret that one out :-) Sure ammayi's is real special proof even here DILs have switched to using hers.

  11. I always get confused when I hear one cup/two cup meansures. How much does a cup generally stand for?

  12. Uthra! Googling might help!!
    Here is a conversion chart

