Indian Spicy Split Peas With Vegetables (Sambar)
Description
This comforting Indian-style split pea stew, known as Sambar, combines earthy yellow split peas with a medley of diced vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and eggplant. The dish is elevated by a fragrant spice blend of toasted coriander, fenugreek, and cinnamon, balanced with the distinct sourness of tamarind pulp. The result is a rich, slightly spicy, and deeply flavorful soup that is perfect for cozy dinners or meal prepping. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, offering a wholesome, vegan-friendly meal that warms the soul.Ingredients
Directions
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Rinse the dried yellow split peas under cold water.
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In a 2-quart saucepan, combine the rinsed peas and 4 cups of water.
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Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
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Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes until the peas are tender.
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While the peas cook, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in an 8-inch skillet over medium heat.
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Add shredded coconut, coriander seeds, fenugreek seeds, and the cinnamon stick to the skillet.
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Cook and stir constantly until the coconut is light brown and fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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Remove the skillet from heat and stir in salt and cayenne pepper.
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Transfer the spice mixture to a mortar and pestle or spice grinder and crush until finely ground. Set aside.
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In a 12-inch skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
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Add diced carrots, zucchini, chopped onion, and diced eggplant.
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Cook and stir occasionally until the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
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In a small bowl, mix tamarind pulp with 2 tablespoons of water until softened and smooth.
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Add the cooked peas, the ground coconut-spice mixture, and the tamarind mixture to the skillet with the vegetables.
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Stir well to combine all ingredients.
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Cook over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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If the consistency is too thick, add additional water a little at a time until it reaches a soup-like consistency.
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Heat through until the stew is hot and well-blended.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4 cups
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 300.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15.2g24%
- Saturated Fat 3.9g20%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1285.1mg54%
- Total Carbohydrate 43.7g15%
- Dietary Fiber 21.6g87%
- Sugars 11.0g
- Protein 6.6g14%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.