Introduction
If you love comforting South Indian meals with rich aroma and tangy flavors, this Tomato Sambhar recipe is a perfect choice. Made with lentils fresh tomatoes and aromatic spices, this dish gets its authentic South Indian taste from RSC Sambhar Masala.
The flavorful combination of tangy tomatoes and spicy sambhar seasoning makes this homemade Tomato Sambhar perfect for serving with idli dosa rice or vada.
About the Dish
Tomato Sambhar is a traditional South Indian lentil curry made with tomatoes toor dal and flavorful sambhar spices
- Known for its tangy spicy and comforting taste
- Commonly served with idli dosa steamed rice and vada
- RSC Sambhar Masala adds authentic South Indian aroma and flavor
- Perfect everyday meal for breakfast lunch and dinner
Ingredients You Will Need
For Tomato Sambhar
- 1 cup toor dal
- 3 tomatoes finely chopped
- 1 onion sliced
- 1 green chilli chopped
- 1 tbsp tamarind pulp
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- Few curry leaves
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 2 tsp RSC Sambhar Masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves
- Water as needed
For Garnishing
- Fresh coriander leaves
- Ghee drizzle optional
- Curry leaves
Secret Spice Blend Tip
- ½ tsp roasted cumin powder
- A pinch of asafoetida hing
- 1 tsp RSC Sambhar Masala
- Few crushed curry leaves
Add this blend during final simmering for authentic hotel-style sambhar aroma.
Step-by-Step Recipe

Cooking the Dal
Wash and pressure cook toor dal
- Cook until soft and mushy
- Mash lightly and keep aside
Preparing the Sambhar Base
Heat oil or ghee in a pan
- Add mustard seeds cumin seeds and curry leaves
- Add sliced onions and green chilli
- Sauté until onions become soft
Cooking the Tomatoes
Add chopped tomatoes into the pan
- Cook until tomatoes become soft and pulpy
- Add turmeric salt and RSC Sambhar Masala
- Mix properly until aromatic
Preparing the Sambhar
Add cooked dal and tamarind pulp
- Add water according to desired consistency
- Simmer for 10–15 minutes on medium flame
- Stir occasionally for even flavor
Final Serving
Garnish with coriander leaves
- Serve hot with idli dosa rice or vada
- Add little ghee for extra flavor if desired
Tips for Best Taste
Use ripe tomatoes for natural tangy flavor
- Add RSC Sambhar Masala during simmering for deep aroma
- Cook dal until smooth for authentic texture
- Use fresh curry leaves for traditional South Indian taste
Variations You Can Try
Add vegetables like drumstick and carrot
- Make spicy version with extra green chillies
- Add coconut paste for richer flavor
- Use moong dal for lighter variation
FAQs
Q: Why is Sambhar Masala important in Tomato Sambhar?
RSC Sambhar Masala gives authentic South Indian flavor rich aroma and balanced spice to the sambhar.
Q: Which dal is best for sambhar?
Toor dal is traditionally used because it gives authentic taste and creamy texture.
Q: Can I make Tomato Sambhar without tamarind?
Yes, tomatoes already provide tanginess but tamarind enhances the flavor further.
About RSC Spices
RSC spices are crafted with premium ingredients to deliver authentic Indian flavor rich aroma and traditional taste for everyday homemade recipes.
Final Note
A comforting South Indian meal becomes truly satisfying with the perfect spice blend and fresh ingredients. With RSC Sambhar Masala, this Tomato Sambhar gets its authentic aroma tangy flavor and delicious homemade taste.


