MTR Inst. Sambar Mix 200g

MTR Instant Sambar Mix is a convenient product designed to help you prepare Sambar, a popular and flavorful South Indian lentil-based stew. Sambar is a staple in South Indian cuisine, commonly enjoyed with idlis, dosas, and rice. The instant mix simplifies the preparation process, making it quick and easy to enjoy this delicious dish at home.
What is Sambar?
Sambar is a hearty stew made from cooked lentils, vegetables, and a blend of spices. It is typically tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet, with a rich and aromatic flavor profile. It is often served as a side dish with rice or as a dipping sauce for dosas and idlis.
Ingredients
MTR Instant Sambar Mix generally includes:
Lentils: Usually toor dal (pigeon peas) or chana dal (split chickpeas) as the base for the stew.
Vegetables: Dehydrated vegetables like carrots, beans, and potatoes for added texture and nutrition.
Spices: A blend of spices including mustard seeds, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder.
Tamarind Powder: Adds the characteristic tangy flavor to the sambar.
Salt and Sugar: For seasoning and balance.
Nutritional Value
Sambar made from MTR Instant Sambar Mix is a good source of protein and fiber, thanks to the lentils. The vegetables add additional vitamins and minerals, while the spices can offer various health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The exact nutritional profile will depend on the specific ingredients and proportions used.
Preparation and Cooking
Prepare the Mix:In a large saucepan, add the MTR Instant Sambar Mix to water according to the package instructions. Typically, the ratio will be about 1-2 tablespoons of mix per cup of water.
Cooking:Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the lentils are fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
Adjusting Consistency:If the sambar is too thick, you can add a bit more water. If it’s too thin, continue to simmer until it reaches the desired consistency.
Final Adjustments:Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can also add fresh chopped coriander or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
Serving:Serve the sambar hot with rice, idlis, dosas, or as a side dish with other South Indian meals.
Culinary Uses
Rice: Sambar is commonly served with rice as a main dish, often accompanied by a side of yogurt or pickles.
Idlis and Dosas: It is a popular accompaniment for idlis and dosas, adding flavor and moisture.
Vegetarian Meals: Sambar can also be enjoyed as a hearty, vegetarian main dish or side with other Indian dishes.
Cooking Tips
Consistency: Adjust the water according to your preference for a thicker or thinner sambar. Start with less water and add more as needed.
Enhancing Flavor: For extra flavor, you can temper the sambar with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and dried red chilies in hot oil before adding it to the stew.
Vegetables: If you want to add fresh vegetables, chop them into small pieces and add them to the saucepan along with the mix.
Storage
Dry Mix: Store the MTR Instant Sambar Mix in a cool, dry place, away from moisture. Once opened, keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Prepared Sambar: Store any leftover sambar in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave. For longer storage, you can freeze sambar in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Health Benefits
High in Protein and Fiber: Lentils provide a good source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion and support overall health.
Nutrient-Rich: The addition of vegetables and spices enhances the nutritional value of sambar, providing various vitamins and minerals.
Low in Fat: Since sambar is typically prepared with minimal oil and is made from wholesome ingredients, it is a relatively low-fat dish.
MTR Instant Sambar Mix offers a convenient way to prepare this classic South Indian dish without the need for extensive preparation. If you have more questions or need additional tips on using the mix, feel free to ask!