There are few dishes as comforting and iconic as Idli Sambar — a perfect blend of soft, fluffy rice cakes served with a tangy, spicy lentil stew. Loved across India and adored by food lovers worldwide, this dish is a symbol of simplicity, nourishment, and heritage.
At Saagar Phuket, our chefs bring this traditional South Indian delicacy to life, offering guests a taste of authentic India right here in the heart of Phuket.
The Origins of Idli Sambar
The Idli Sambar recipe has its roots in the southern states of India — particularly Tamil Nadu and Karnataka — where it’s enjoyed as a staple breakfast. The dish beautifully represents South Indian culinary philosophy: balanced nutrition, light on the stomach, and bursting with flavor.
While idli (steamed rice cakes) dates back over a thousand years, sambar — the lentil-based vegetable stew — is said to have originated in the royal kitchens of the Maratha ruler Shahuji, who ruled Tanjore. According to legend, the dish was created accidentally when the king’s cook added tamarind to a dal preparation while experimenting. The result was so delicious that it became a culinary tradition across South India.
Ingredients That Make Idli Sambar Special
An authentic idli sambar recipe relies on fresh ingredients, perfect proportions, and careful preparation.
For the Idli:
- 1 cup urad dal (split black gram)
- 2 cups idli rice or parboiled rice
- Salt to taste
- Water as required
For the Sambar:
- 1 cup toor dal (pigeon peas)
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 tomato, chopped
- ½ cup tamarind extract
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 2 dried red chilies
- 10–12 curry leaves
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 2 tsp sambar powder
- 2 tbsp oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
The hotel idli sambar recipe at Saagar Phuket follows the traditional South Indian method — ensuring the perfect texture of idlis and the rich, aromatic flavor of sambar that’s both spicy and tangy.
Idli Sambar Recipe: Step-by-Step
1. Preparing the Idli Batter
Soak urad dal and rice separately for at least 6 hours. Grind them into a smooth batter, mixing them together and adding salt. Allow the batter to ferment overnight in a warm place — this fermentation process is key to achieving soft, fluffy idlis.
2. Steaming the Idlis
Pour the fermented batter into greased idli molds and steam for 10–12 minutes. Once cooked, remove and allow them to cool slightly before serving. The idlis should be soft, light, and airy.
3. Making the Sambar
Pressure cook toor dal with turmeric until soft, then mash it well. In a pan, heat oil and add mustard seeds, curry leaves, and dried red chilies. Sauté onions and tomatoes, add tamarind extract, and stir in sambar powder. Combine with cooked dal and simmer until it reaches a smooth, flavorful consistency.
4. Serving the Idli Sambar
Serve hot idlis in a bowl or plate, topped generously with steaming sambar. Garnish with fresh coriander and a drizzle of ghee for that final touch of richness.
At Saagar Phuket, our idli sambar recipe stays true to its roots, maintaining the balance of flavors that makes this dish a South Indian favorite.
The Cultural Significance of Idli Sambar
In India, idli sambar is more than just a dish — it’s a way of life. From bustling Chennai streets to cozy home kitchens in Bangalore, it’s the go-to breakfast for millions. Its light texture and nutritious balance make it suitable for all ages.
The combination of steamed idlis and lentil-based sambar offers the perfect mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamins — making it a healthy yet indulgent meal. No wonder it’s often the first recommendation for anyone seeking authentic South Indian cuisine.
For travelers in Phuket, Saagar offers a slice of this tradition. Our chefs — trained in regional South Indian cooking — ensure that every bite of our idli sambar captures the essence of its homeland.
Different Regional Styles
One of the most fascinating aspects of idli sambar is how its preparation changes across states:
- Tamil Nadu Style: Slightly tangy and spicy, with drumsticks, shallots, and a distinct aroma from roasted spices.
- Karnataka Style: Milder and slightly sweet due to the addition of jaggery.
- Andhra Style: The spiciest version, perfect for those who love bold flavors.
At Saagar Phuket, our idli sambar recipe in Tamil style is the most popular — offering a balance of heat, tanginess, and depth of flavor that defines true Tamil cuisine.
Health and Nutrition
Many guests at Saagar Phuket ask — “Is idli sambar healthy?” The answer is a resounding yes! Idli is steamed, not fried, making it light and low in fat. Sambar is packed with protein-rich lentils and fiber-rich vegetables, making the combination an ideal choice for a balanced diet.
On average, calories in idli sambar range between 250–300 per serving, depending on portion size and ingredients. It’s a perfect meal for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Indian food without compromising on health.
Idli Sambar at Saagar Phuket
At Saagar Phuket, we take pride in serving authentic Indian dishes made with care and tradition. Our idli sambar recipe uses premium lentils, freshly ground spices, and traditional techniques passed down through generations.
Served hot and fragrant, our idli sambar is a customer favorite — loved for its comforting aroma and satisfying flavors. Whether you’re an early riser craving a wholesome breakfast or simply looking to experience South India’s culinary charm, this dish never disappoints.
So next time you’re in Phuket and searching for “idli sambar near me,” head to Saagar Phuket for a truly authentic taste of India.
FAQs
1. How to make idli sambar?
Soak rice and dal separately, grind to make batter, ferment overnight, and steam. Prepare sambar with toor dal, tamarind, and spices, then serve together.
2. How to prepare idli sambar?
Cook idlis using fermented batter and make sambar using toor dal and vegetables like drumsticks and onions. Combine and serve hot.
3. How many calories in idli sambar?
A serving of idli sambar usually contains about 250–300 calories.
4. Is idli sambar healthy?
Yes, it’s rich in proteins, vitamins, and fiber, making it a healthy meal option.
5. How much calories in idli sambar?
One serving provides approximately 280 calories, depending on portion size.