Can your sambar powder be pre-mixed and stored for a quick prep? Get the recipe for a homemade blend that's better than store-bought.
1 Answer
Yes, sambar powder can be pre-mixed and stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for several months, making sambar preparation much faster.
Detailed Explanation:
Pre-mixing sambar powder is a common practice to streamline the cooking process. Sambar powder typically consists of a blend of roasted lentils (like toor dal and chana dal), dried red chilies, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, black peppercorns, curry leaves, and sometimes asafoetida. Roasting these ingredients individually enhances their flavor and aroma. Once cooled, they are ground together into a fine powder. Storing this pre-mixed powder eliminates the need to measure out individual spices each time you want to make sambar. To ensure its longevity, store the powder in an airtight container away from moisture and direct sunlight. A cool, dark pantry is ideal. Properly stored sambar powder can last for several months without significant loss of flavor.
Pro Tip:
To extend the shelf life and enhance the flavor of your sambar powder, consider dry-roasting the pre-mixed powder in a pan for a few minutes before storing it. This helps to remove any residual moisture and intensifies the aroma. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.