Hey guys! Are you craving that authentic South Indian flavor but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen? Well, you're in luck! Let's dive into the world of Aashirvaad Instant Sambar Powder, your shortcut to a delicious and heartwarming bowl of sambar. This magical powder brings the taste of South India right to your dining table, and trust me, it’s a game-changer for busy weeknights or when you just need a comforting meal.

What is Aashirvaad Instant Sambar Powder?

Aashirvaad Instant Sambar Powder is a pre-mixed blend of spices and lentils, meticulously crafted to help you make sambar quickly and easily. Sambar, a lentil-based vegetable stew or chowder, is a staple in South Indian cuisine, known for its tangy, savory, and slightly spicy flavor profile. Traditionally, making sambar from scratch involves roasting spices, grinding them, cooking lentils, and simmering everything together with vegetables. But with Aashirvaad's instant powder, you can skip all those steps and still enjoy a flavorful and authentic sambar.

Key Ingredients and Their Benefits

The beauty of Aashirvaad Instant Sambar Powder lies in its carefully selected ingredients. Each component contributes to the overall taste and nutritional value of the final dish:

• Toor Dal (Split Pigeon Peas): This is the primary lentil used in sambar, providing a rich, creamy texture and a good dose of protein and fiber. Toor dal is essential for making the sambar hearty and filling.
• Coriander Seeds: These seeds lend a citrusy and earthy aroma to the powder, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Coriander seeds are also known for their digestive properties.
• Red Chillies: These add the much-needed heat and spiciness to the sambar. The quantity and type of chillies used determine the sambar's spice level, catering to different preferences. Red chillies not only add flavor but also contain capsaicin, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Cumin Seeds: Cumin contributes a warm, earthy flavor that is both comforting and aromatic. Cumin seeds are also known to aid digestion and boost immunity.
• Fenugreek Seeds: A small amount of fenugreek adds a slightly bitter and nutty flavor, balancing the other spices. Fenugreek seeds are also beneficial for controlling blood sugar levels.
• Mustard Seeds: These tiny seeds provide a sharp, pungent flavor that is characteristic of South Indian cuisine. Mustard seeds add a unique zing to the sambar.
• Curry Leaves: Known for their distinct aroma, curry leaves add a fresh and vibrant flavor to the sambar. Curry leaves are also packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients.
• Turmeric: This spice not only imparts a beautiful yellow color but also adds a mild, earthy flavor. Turmeric is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thanks to its active compound, curcumin.
• Asafoetida (Hing): A pinch of asafoetida adds a unique, pungent flavor that enhances the digestibility of the sambar. Asafoetida is especially helpful in reducing bloating and gas.

Nutritional Benefits

Sambar made with Aashirvaad Instant Sambar Powder is not only delicious but also nutritious. It is a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The lentils provide protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair. The vegetables add fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels. The spices are rich in antioxidants, which protect the body against damage from free radicals. Including sambar in your diet can contribute to overall health and well-being.

How to Use Aashirvaad Instant Sambar Powder

Using Aashirvaad Instant Sambar Powder is incredibly simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a delicious pot of sambar:

1. Gather Your Ingredients: Besides the sambar powder, you'll need vegetables of your choice (such as drumsticks, okra, eggplant, and onions), tamarind extract, oil, and water. You can also add lentils (toor dal) if you prefer a thicker consistency. However, with the instant powder, adding extra lentils is optional.
2. Cook the Vegetables: In a pot, sauté your choice of vegetables in a little oil until they are slightly softened. You can also pressure cook the vegetables for a quicker cooking time.
3. Add Water and Sambar Powder: Add water to the pot, ensuring there's enough to cover the vegetables. Then, add the Aashirvaad Instant Sambar Powder. The quantity of powder depends on your taste preference and the amount of sambar you are making. A good starting point is about 2-3 tablespoons of powder for every 4 cups of water.
4. Add Tamarind Extract: Tamarind extract is crucial for the tangy flavor of sambar. Add a small amount of tamarind extract to the pot. You can adjust the quantity based on your preference for sourness.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked through and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Tempering (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor, you can prepare a tempering by heating oil in a small pan, adding mustard seeds, cumin seeds, dried red chillies, and curry leaves. Once the mustard seeds splutter, pour the tempering over the sambar.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with rice, idli, dosa, or vada.

Tips for the Perfect Sambar

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier sambar, add a pinch of red chilli powder or a few extra chopped green chillies along with the vegetables.
• Balance the Sourness: The key to a good sambar is balancing the tanginess of the tamarind with the other flavors. Add jaggery to balance the sourness.
• Use Fresh Vegetables: The fresher the vegetables, the better the flavor of the sambar. Choose seasonal vegetables for the best taste and nutritional value.
• Don't Overcook the Vegetables: Overcooked vegetables can become mushy and lose their flavor. Cook them until they are just tender.
• Customize with Additional Ingredients: Feel free to add other ingredients to customize your sambar. Some popular additions include tomatoes, potatoes, and carrots.

Why Choose Aashirvaad Instant Sambar Powder?

With so many options available in the market, why should you choose Aashirvaad Instant Sambar Powder? Here are a few compelling reasons:

• Authentic Taste: Aashirvaad is a trusted brand known for its high-quality ingredients and authentic flavors. Their instant sambar powder captures the traditional taste of South Indian sambar perfectly.
• Convenience: This powder saves you a significant amount of time and effort in the kitchen. No need to roast and grind spices – just add the powder to your vegetables and water, and you're good to go!
• Consistency: Aashirvaad ensures that each batch of sambar powder has the same consistent flavor, so you can always rely on it to deliver a delicious sambar.
• Versatility: While primarily used for making sambar, this powder can also be used to add flavor to other dishes, such as stews and curries.
• Affordability: Aashirvaad Instant Sambar Powder is reasonably priced, making it an affordable option for anyone who loves South Indian cuisine.

Where to Buy Aashirvaad Instant Sambar Powder

You can find Aashirvaad Instant Sambar Powder in most supermarkets and grocery stores, both online and offline. It is also available on popular e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and BigBasket. Check your local Indian grocery stores as well – they are likely to carry it.

Conclusion

Aashirvaad Instant Sambar Powder is a must-have ingredient for anyone who loves the taste of South Indian sambar but doesn't have the time or inclination to make it from scratch. With its authentic flavor, convenience, and versatility, this powder is a game-changer in the kitchen. So, grab a pack of Aashirvaad Instant Sambar Powder and get ready to enjoy a delicious and heartwarming bowl of sambar in no time! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!