Sambar (Indian Bean Soup)

What you need:

1 cup dal (split peas or lentils), cleaned, washe'd & drained
1 quart water
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon mild cooking oil
Chopped vegetables (your choice)
Chopped onions (optional, but tasty)
Sambar powder (available at Indian groceries)
Tamarind paste (available at Indian groceries)
Chopped tomatoes (optional)
Salt (optional)

What you do:

Into a large pot put water, dal, turmeric and oil. Bring to boil; turn heat down to simmer. Cook until beans are almost soft. Add the chopped vegetables, and chopped onions, if used. Add 2-5 tsp Sambar Powder, and a tsp of Tamarind Paste, &/or chopped tomatoes.
Cook 10 minutes more, or until beans are tender.
Salt to taste (optional), and serve with really good vegan bread!
NOTE: For a creamier soup, puree finishe'd soup in blender.

Preparation Time:

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Recipe Category:

Indian