Drumstick Sambhar is a tangy South Indian lentil-vegetable stew with tamarind and aromatic spices. This high protein, fiber-rich vegetarian dish is a DASH-friendly family staple that supports healthy eating.
Rinse the toor dal thoroughly, then cook it in 4 cups water with turmeric powder on medium heat until soft and creamy (about 25 minutes).
While dal cooks, cut drumsticks into 3-inch batons, dice carrot, eggplant, tomato, and onion uniformly.
In a separate pot, heat oil on medium and add mustard seeds; when they splutter, add curry leaves followed by chopped onions. Sauté for 2 minutes.
Add tomatoes, carrots, drumsticks, and eggplant. Stir and sauté for 4 minutes, then pour in the cooked dal and simmer on low for 10 minutes.
Mix in sambhar powder, tamarind pulp, and salt. Cook uncovered on low-medium heat for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to maintain a stew-like consistency. Adjust water if needed.
Taste and fine-tune seasoning. Serve piping hot, ensuring drumstick is tender but not falling apart.