South Indian Sambar (Traditional Stew)

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp (30 mL) coriander seeds
• 1 Tbsp (15 mL) cumin seeds
• 1 tsp (5 mL) fenugreek seeds
• 1 tsp (5 mL) black peppercorns
• 10 dried red chilies (ex: chile de arbole)
• 1 small cinnamon stick
• 3 cloves
• 1 small black cardamom pod
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ cup (125 mL) urad dal (whole black gram)
• 4 cups (1 L) vegetable broth
• 2 Tbsp (30 mL) vegetable oil
• 1 cup (250 mL) yellow onion, minced
• 1 tsp (5 mL) ginger paste
• 1 Tbsp (15 mL) garlic, minced
• 1 cup (250 mL) chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1 Tbsp (15 mL) sambar powder (above)
• 1 tsp (5 mL) turmeric powder
• 1 tsp (5 mL) salt
• 1 Tbsp (15 mL) tamarind paste (soaked in ¼ cup/60 mL hot water)
• 1 Tbsp (15 mL) ghee (optional)