Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare the Sambar Base

   Start with cooked yellow dal in a pressure cooker. Stir it well. Add 1 green chili, 1 chopped onion, and approximately 1/4 cup of tamarind water to the dal. Stir the mixture well to combine all ingredients.

2. 2.Season the Sambar

   Add salt to taste to the dal mixture. In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder with 2 tablespoons of water to form a paste. Add the turmeric paste to the dal mixture and stir until well combined. Let it simmer gently.

3. 3.Prepare the Tempering

   Heat 1/4 cup of cooking oil in a separate pan. Add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then, add 1 sprig of curry leaves, 2-3 dried red chilies, and 2-3 crushed garlic cloves to the hot oil. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and the garlic turns light golden.

4. 4.Combine Tempering with Sambar

   Pour the prepared tempering into the simmering dal mixture. Stir well. Adjust salt to taste if necessary.

5. 5.Fry the Vada

   Heat 2-3 cups of oil in a deep pan for frying. Take a small portion of the prepared vada batter/dough, shape it into a flat disc or ball, and carefully drop it into the hot oil. Fry the vada in batches until they are golden brown and cooked through.

6. 6.Assemble and Serve

   Once fried, transfer the hot vada directly into the simmering sambar mixture. Serve hot.