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15-Min Idli & Sambar with Coconut Chutney

Fluffy steamed rice cakes paired with a quick tamarind-lentil broth and creamy coconut chutney. Indian comfort food that tastes like it simmered for hours but comes together in 15 minutes.

Total time
15 min
Servings
2
Calories
280
Protein
12g
15-Min Idli & Sambar with Coconut Chutney
comfortwholesomeindianvegetarianlentilsfluffycreamysmooth

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Boil 2 cups water in a pot. Add lentils, tamarind paste, and sambar powder, stirring to combine.

  2. Step 2

    Simmer until lentils soften and broth thickens, about 8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  3. Step 3

    While sambar cooks, blend coconut, green chili, and 0.25 cup water into a smooth paste. Strain if you prefer a silky chutney.

  4. Step 4

    Heat the idli in the microwave (2 minutes, covered) or steam for 3 minutes until warm through.

  5. Step 5

    Arrange idli on a plate. Pour hot sambar over and around them. Drizzle coconut chutney on the side or on top.

  6. Step 6

    Garnish with curry leaves if using. Serve immediately while steam rises from the bowl.

Tools you’ll need

  • 2-quart pot
  • blender or food processor
  • microwave or steamer basket
  • serving bowl
  • spoon

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