Dairy-Free Sambhar Idli

Experience the perfect harmony of flavors with this Dairy-Free Sambhar Idli, a wholesome, plant-based twist on a beloved South Indian classic. Fluffy, steamed rice and urad dal idlis are paired with a vibrant, spiced sambhar made from toor dal, tangy tamarind, and a medley of fresh vegetables like carrots, beans, and drumstick. This recipe embraces traditional fermentation techniques for the batter, delivering idlis that are delightfully light and airy, while the sambhar's aromatic tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and asafoetida adds depth and authenticity. Perfect for breakfast or a satisfying meal, this dairy-free recipe is a healthy, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly dish that’s sure to impress. Serve it hot and garnish with fresh coriander for a comforting culinary experience straight from South India.

Nutriscore Rating: 79/100

Prep Time:40 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:100 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Rice
• 0.25 cup Urad dal (black gram split, skinless)
• 0.5 teaspoon Fenugreek seeds
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 cup Toor dal (pigeon peas)
• 2 tablespoons Tamarind pulp
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon Mustard seeds
• 10 leaves Curry leaves
• 0.25 teaspoon Asafoetida
• 2 tablespoons Sambhar powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1 large, chopped Carrot
• 8 chopped French beans
• 1 inch stick, chopped Drumstick
• 1 medium, sliced Onion
• 1 medium, chopped Tomato
• 2 tablespoons, chopped Coriander leaves
• 4 cups Water

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the rice and urad dal separately with water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice with fenugreek seeds in 2 cups of water and the urad dal in 1 cup of water for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Step 2

Drain and reserve the soaking water. Grind the urad dal into a smooth batter adding water as needed. Then grind the rice to a slightly coarse batter. Mix both batters in a large bowl.

Step 3

Add 1 teaspoon salt and mix well. Cover and let the batter ferment in a warm place for 10-12 hours or until it doubles in size.

Step 4

For sambhar, rinse the toor dal in water, and cook with 2 cups of water until soft. Mash slightly and set aside.

Step 5

In a separate pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add curry leaves and asafoetida.

Step 6

Add sliced onions and sauté until translucent. Then add chopped carrots, beans, and drumstick. Sauté for 2-3 minutes.

Step 7

Add turmeric powder, and sambhar powder, and sauté for another minute. Then add tamarind pulp and tomato.

Step 8

Pour in 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Simmer until the vegetables are halfway cooked.

Step 9

Add the cooked toor dal, salt, and additional water if needed. Allow the sambhar to simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Step 10

Prepare the idli steamer by boiling water in its base. Grease the idli molds lightly with oil.

Step 11

Mix the fermented idli batter gently and pour into the molds. Steam in idli steamer for 10-12 minutes.

Step 12

Check with a toothpick. It should come out clean when idlis are done. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before removal.

Step 13

Serve the warm idlis with hot sambhar, garnished with coriander leaves.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2691.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1715.0

Total Fat 46.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 8.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 18.5g
Cholesterol 149mg	0%
Sodium 4497.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 262.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 66.6g	0%
Total Sugars 63.2g
Protein 88.5g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 708.8mg	0%
Iron 24.9mg	0%
Potassium 5096.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 22.8%

Protein: 19.5%

Carbs: 57.8%