Udupi sambar recipe is a classic South Indian preparation that stands out for its comforting taste and the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and mild spices. Each region has its own version, with some being more tangy, some slightly sweeter, and others having a spicier kick. Originating from the temple kitchens of Udupi in Karnataka, this sambar is also known as Devasthana sambar, meaning temple-style sambar. This recipe has a mild sweetness from yellow pumpkin, while tamarind adds a light tang that keeps the flavours well balanced. Made without onion or garlic, it reflects the simplicity and warmth of temple-style cooking, where food is prepared to be both nourishing and comforting.
The heart of this dish lies in its freshly prepared masala, where everyday ingredients are carefully roasted to release their aroma. These roasted spices, lentils, coconut, and Byadagi chillies are then blended into a smooth paste, giving the sambar its rich colour and layered flavour. This sambar recipe focuses on a balanced, rounded flavour rather than sharp spice alone. A final drizzle of coconut oil tempering adds a distinct finish and a beautiful fragrance that brings everything together.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
200 gramsYellow Pumpkin (roughly chopped)
125 gramsAsh Gourd (roughly chopped)
2Green Brinjal (or regular brinjal)
1 mediumTomato
½ cupToor Dal
Lemon-sizedTamarind (soaked in ½ cup water)
2 sprigsCurry Leaves
2 tbspCoconut oil
2 tspSunflower Oil
1 tspMustard seeds
1 tspUrad Dal
½ tspAsafoetida
1.5 tbsp Powdered Jaggery
to tasteSalt
For Sambar Masala:
1 tspChanna Dal
1 tspUrad Dal
2 tspCoriander Seeds (Dhaniya)
6-7Byadagi Red Chillies
½ tspCumin Seeds (Jeera)
¼ tsp Fenugreek Seeds (Methi)
3 tspGrated Coconut
4-5Peppercorns
1 sprigCurry Leaves
1 tspOil
Follow
Directions
Description - Step 1
Cook the Toor Dal
Pressure cook the toor dal with 1 cup water and a pinch of turmeric for about 5–6 whistles. Once cooked, mash it well until smooth and keep aside. This forms the base of your sambar.
Description - Step 2
Prepare the Sambar Masala
Heat 1 tsp oil in a pan on a low flame. Add channa dal, urad dal, fenugreek seeds, and peppercorns first. Roast lightly and then add red chillies, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, coconut, and curry leaves. Roast gently until aromatic. Do not over-brown. Cool the mixture and grind it into a smooth paste using a little water.
Description - Step 3
Cook the Vegetables
Chop all vegetables into large chunks. Heat 2 tsp oil in a pot. Add pumpkin first and sauté for about a minute. Then add ash gourd, brinjal, and tomato. Add turmeric, salt, and a little water. Cover and cook for 7-8 minutes or until vegetables are about 70% done.
Description - Step 4
Add Tamarind & Masala
Pour in the tamarind extract and let it cook for 2–3 minutes. Now add the ground masala and asafoetida. Mix well and cook for another 2–3 minutes so the flavours blend nicely.
Description - Step 5
Add Dal & Simmer
Add the mashed toor dal and jaggery. Mix everything well. Add water to adjust consistency and let it simmer on a low flame. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The sambar will thicken as it cooks.
Description - Step 6
Prepare the Tempering
Heat coconut oil in a small pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Add urad dal and fry until golden. Then add curry leaves and switch off the flame. Pour this tempering over the hot sambar and mix gently.
Udupi sambar differs by featuring a coconut-based spice paste, the absence of onion and garlic, and slight sweetness from jaggery, resulting in a smooth texture and distinctive taste.
Yes, you can skip jaggery if you prefer a less sweet taste. However, adding a small amount helps balance the tanginess and enhances the overall flavour of the dish.
Udupi sambar is called temple-style sambar because it follows traditional cooking methods used in temples. It is prepared without onion and garlic, uses sattvic ingredients, and is offered as sacred food (prasadam) before serving.
Yes, you can prepare the masala ahead and store it in the refrigerator for a day. However, using freshly ground masala enhances the taste, aroma, and overall authenticity of the dish.