Instant Sambar with Vegetables for Idli, Dosa
[Vegan]

For the Spice Paste:

1. In a saucepan, heat oil and add chilies, cardamom, cloves, coriander & fenugreek seeds, dals and rice. Once the seeds and spices start to toast and get fragrant, add coconut and cook for 1~2 minutes.
2. Next add onion and tomato. Cook till the tomatoes are turn soft and almost mushy, about 3~4 minutes. Let the mixture cool slightly before grinding into a smooth paste.

For the Sambar:

1. In a medium saucepan, heat oil, add mustard and cumin seeds and once they start to splutter asafoetida, green chilis and curry leaves.
2. Next add the onions, carrot and peppers. Cook on medium flame until the veggies are tender, about 8~10 minutes.
3. Add the spice paste, tamarind paste, salt and 2 cups – bring the sambar to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer for 5~6 minutes.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with idli/ dosa or rice.