TURNIP SAMBAR

VEGAN / GLUTEN-FREE

Sambar is a flavorful lentil and veggie stew from south India. I have never really liked turnips or radishes that much or knew what to do with them. This recipe is the answer. Best served with dosas (rice & lentil crepes) and mint coconut chutney or over rice. This recipe hits all the sweet spots as it is umami, salty, sweet, and sour, as well as somehow both light and hearty. I must thank Padma Lakshmi for this recipe inspiration!

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 tsp. black mustard seeds

1/4 tsp. fenugreek seeds (or powder)

1/4 tsp. ground turmeric

1 tsp. salt

2 tsp. coriander seeds

2-3 turnips or radishes, roughly chopped

1/4 onion OR 1 shallot, chopped

1 hot pepper (any kind, fresh or dried), optional

2 Tbsp. tamarind paste mixed into 1 cup water (or if using dried, soak 1 in hot water and then strain)

2 small tomatoes OR 1/4 can of canned tomatoes, chopped

1 zucchini, sliced into half-moon rounds 1” wide

1 cup cooked red lentils, slightly mashed

1 Tbsp. ghee or coconut oil (if vegan)

2-3 Tbsp. dried coconut

***You can also add in bell peppers, green beans, spinach…make it a kitchen sink sambar!

DIRECTIONS:

Heat 1/2 Tbsp. ghee in a medium saucepan. Once hot, add mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds (if using powder save for later), heating and stirring until the mustard seeds begin to pop and dance around. Add in onion and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then add tamarind water, turmeric, salt, and turnip/radish and cook until radishes are soft and liquid has reduced a bit. If you find that it becomes too dry, just add a bit more water. Add in tomato and red lentil mash and reduce heat to low.

In a small frying pan heat 1/2 Tbsp. of ghee and then add in coriander seeds and chili along with coconut and fry for 1-2 minutes. Add to a food processor with some hot water or liquid from sambar stew and blend. Add this to the sambar stew.

Simmer for another 5-10 minutes to incorporate flavors, being sure to taste and adjust seasoning. If it seems too sour or spicy, add a bit of sweetener like maple syrup or sugar. Enjoy!