Recipe

Preparing Sambar:

1. Heat Oil: In a pressure cooker, heat 2 teaspoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté Spices: Add 1 teaspoon cumin seeds and ¼ teaspoon asafoetida. Stir for a few seconds until fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables: Add sweet neem leaves and sliced onions (if using). Sauté until the onions turn pink.
4. Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the chopped tomato and a pinch of salt. Cook until the tomato softens. Add 1.5 teaspoons Kashmiri red chili powder, 1.5 teaspoons sambar masala, and 1 teaspoon turmeric powder. Mix well.
5. Combine with Dal: Add soaked and drained dal (cooked dal can also be used). Mix thoroughly with the spices.
6. Add Vegetables: Add your choice of chopped mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, etc.).
7. Pressure Cook: Add enough water to cover the mixture, cover the cooker, and pressure cook for 2-3 whistles or for 10-12 minutes on medium-low heat.
8. Prepare Tamarind Juice: While the Sambar is cooking, soak tamarind in hot water and extract the pulp.
9. Finish Sambar: Once the pressure is released, open the cooker, stir the Sambar, and add tamarind juice. Adjust seasoning and let it simmer for a few minutes.
10. Garnish: Add chopped coriander leaves and, if desired, a tempering of oil, cumin, and onions on top.

Preparing Medu Vada:

1. Soak Dal: Soak 1.5 cups of urad dal in water for 2-3 hours.
2. Grind Dal: Drain the dal and grind it in a blender or wet grinder, using minimal water to get a thick batter. The batter should be smooth and fluffy.
3. Mix Ingredients: Transfer the batter to a bowl, and mix in cumin seeds, asafoetida, chopped green chilies, coriander, and salt. Beat the batter for 8-10 minutes to incorporate air.
4. Shape Vadas: Wet your hands or use a greased plastic sheet. Take a small portion of batter, shape it into a donut (with a hole in the center), and carefully drop it into hot oil.
5. Fry Vadas: Heat oil in a pan on medium flame. Once hot, fry the vadas until golden brown and crispy on both sides (about 5-6 minutes). Use a slotted spoon to drain excess oil.
6. Serve: Serve hot Medu Vadas with the prepared Sambar and coconut chutney if desired.

Conclusion:

Enjoy your homemade Medu Vada with Sambar for a delightful meal! The crispy vadas and flavorful sambar are sure to impress your family and friends. Don't forget to share your experience!