Delicious Jackfruit and Spinach Sambar Recipe: Nutritious, Flavorful & Vegan

If you're looking to add a healthy and flavorful dish to your meal rotation, this Jackfruit and Spinach Sambar is an excellent choice. Combining the unique texture of jackfruit with the vibrant flavors of sambar, this dish is not only nutritious but also incredibly delicious. Plus, it’s vegan! Let's dive into this delightful recipe and discover how to make it.

Ingredients:

For the Sambar:

• 1 cup ripe jackfruit, chopped

• 2 cups spinach leaves, chopped

• 1/2 cup toor dal (split pigeon peas), rinsed

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 1 medium tomato, chopped

• 2 tablespoons sambar powder

• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1 tablespoon tamarind paste

• 2 tablespoons oil

• Salt to taste

• Water as needed

For the Tempering:

• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)

• 2 dried red chilies

• 10-12 curry leaves

• 1 tablespoon oil

Instructions:

1. Cook the Dal:

   • In a pressure cooker or large pot, combine the toor dal, turmeric powder, and 2 cups of water. Cook until the dal is soft and mushy. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Sambar Base:

   • In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.

   • Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

   • Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and the oil starts to separate.

   • Stir in the sambar powder and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aroma.

3. Add the Vegetables:

   • Add the chopped jackfruit and spinach to the pan. Mix well and cook for a few minutes until the spinach wilts.

   • Pour in the cooked dal and mix everything together. Add more water if needed to achieve your desired consistency.

   • Stir in the tamarind paste and salt to taste. Let the sambar simmer for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

4. Prepare the Tempering:

   • In a small pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat.

   • Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter.

   • Add the asafoetida, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.

   • Pour this tempering over the simmering sambar and mix well.

5. Serve:

   • Serve the hot Jackfruit and Spinach Sambar with steamed rice or dosas. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves if desired.

Tips for Perfect Jackfruit and Spinach Sambar:

• Jackfruit: Use ripe jackfruit for a sweet and soft texture. If using canned jackfruit, rinse it well before using.

• Consistency: Adjust the consistency of the sambar by adding more or less water as per your preference.

• Flavor: Enhance the flavor by adding a small piece of jaggery (gur) to balance the tanginess of the tamarind.

This Jackfruit and Spinach Sambar is a delightful way to enjoy a nutritious and hearty meal. The combination of jackfruit's unique texture with the rich, aromatic flavors of sambar makes this dish truly special.

Enjoy preparing and savoring this delicious sambar, and let its vibrant flavors bring joy to your table!

I hope you enjoy preparing and savoring this delightful dish. If you need more recipes or any other assistance, just let me know! 😊🥥🍲✨

Do you have any other favorite sambar variations you'd like to share?