Idli Sambar is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. The fluffy idlis paired with the spicy, tangy sambar create a perfect harmony of flavors. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering South Indian classic!
Prepare the Idli Batter


Idli Recipe (Idli Batter Recipe with Pro Tips) from Swasthi's Recipes
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 8 h 20 min Total Time: 8 h 20 min.

How to make Idli Batter from Ministry of Curry
Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: 20 h 20 min Total Time: 20 h 20 min.

Idli Recipe (With Homemade Idli Batter) from Dassana's Veg Recipes
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 9 h 25 min Total Time: 9 h 25 min.
The foundation of a great Idli Sambar lies in the idli batter. This fermented mixture of rice and lentils is what gives idlis their unique, fluffy texture. It’s a simple blend that transforms into something magical once cooked!
- 2 cups of idli rice (or parboiled rice)
- 1 cup of urad dal (split black gram)
- 1/2 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
What makes this batter special is the fermentation process. As the mixture ferments, it develops a tangy flavor and airy consistency, perfect for steaming. This step is crucial for achieving that light, fluffy idli that everyone loves!
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Steam the Idlis


Idli Sambar Recipe (Tiffin Sambar) from Swasthi's Recipes
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Green beans, chana dal, urad dal, coconut, tamarind Total Time: 35 min.

idli sambar recipe | tiffin sambar | hotel style idli sambar recipe from Hebbar's Kitchen
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Chana dal, baingan, urad dal, coconut oil, potato Total Time: 40 min.

Idli Sambar Recipe (Hotel Style Tiffin Sambar) from Dassana's Veg Recipes
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: Green beans, masoor dal, chana dal, arhar dal, okra Total Time: 50 min.
Once your batter is ready, it’s time to steam those idlis! This cooking technique retains the moisture and keeps the idlis soft, making them a delightful treat. Watching them puff up as they cook is a sight to behold!
- Idli batter (prepared in the previous step)
- Idli steamer or a large pot with a steaming rack
- Greased idli molds
The steaming method is what sets idlis apart from other dishes. It’s a healthy way to cook without oil, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine. Each bite will be a fluffy cloud of goodness that melts in your mouth!
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Make the Sambar


Sambar Recipe, How to Make Sambar from Swasthi's Recipes
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 50 min Total Time: 50 min.

Traditional Sambar Recipe from Dassana's Veg Recipes
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 45 min Total Time: 45 min.
The sambar is a rich, spicy lentil soup that perfectly complements the idlis. It’s packed with vegetables and infused with a variety of spices, making it a burst of flavor in every spoonful. This dish is more than just a side; it’s a delicious experience!
- 1 cup of toor dal (split pigeon peas)
- 1 cup of mixed vegetables (like carrots, beans, and potatoes)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons of sambar powder
- Tamarind pulp (to taste)
- Salt to taste
- Mustard seeds and curry leaves for tempering
- Oil for tempering
Sambar is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors! The combination of the lentils, vegetables, and spices creates a wholesome meal that is both hearty and satisfying. It’s a staple in South Indian households and is loved for its versatility and ability to bring people together.
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Prepare the Tempering

Idli Sambar Recipe (Tiffin Sambar) from Swasthi's Recipes
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 35 min Total Time: 35 min.

Idli Sambar Recipe (Hotel Style Tiffin Sambar) from Dassana's Veg Recipes
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: 50 min Total Time: 50 min.

idli sambar recipe | tiffin sambar | hotel style idli sambar recipe from Hebbar's Kitchen
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 40 min Total Time: 40 min.
The magic of sambar truly comes alive with the tempering! This simple process of frying mustard seeds and curry leaves in hot oil adds an aromatic finish that elevates the dish. It’s the final touch that ties all the flavors together!
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
- A few curry leaves
Tempering is a technique that enhances the taste and aroma of the dish. The sizzling mustard seeds and fragrant curry leaves create a mouthwatering aroma that will have everyone rushing to the kitchen! This step is what makes your sambar truly special, with a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
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Serve it Up!

Idli Sambar Recipe (Tiffin Sambar) from Swasthi's Recipes
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Green beans, chana dal, urad dal, coconut, tamarind Total Time: 35 min.

idli sambar recipe | tiffin sambar | hotel style idli sambar recipe from Hebbar's Kitchen
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Chana dal, baingan, urad dal, coconut oil, potato Total Time: 40 min.

Idli Sambar Recipe (Hotel Style Tiffin Sambar) from Dassana's Veg Recipes
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: Green beans, masoor dal, chana dal, arhar dal, okra Total Time: 50 min.
The final step is to serve this delightful meal! Pair your fluffy idlis with the hot and spicy sambar, and don’t forget a side of coconut chutney if you like. This combination is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a treat for the eyes!
- Steamed idlis
- Ready sambar
- Coconut chutney (optional)
- Chopped coriander for garnish (optional)
Serving idli sambar is an experience in itself. The sight of the steaming idlis and vibrant sambar creates a colorful plate that invites everyone to dig in. This dish is not just food; it’s a comforting, soul-satisfying meal that brings warmth to any table!