Shallots Sambar

Wrapped in shiny purple peel ,the mild flavored shallots are said to be cross between sweet onions and garlic.Available in many varities ,shallots are rich in vitamin A, B, C and E.Regular consumption of shallots can reduce cholesterol levels and improve the blood circulation. Its very high concentration of flavonoids can reduce the risk of cardio-vascular diseases.

Shallot's delicate flavor is a perfect compliment in exotically spicy sambar , one of the most savored South Indian dishes,served alongside rice ,idli or vada.
Recipe :Shallots Sambar.
Ingredients
1/2 cup Yellow Split Lentil(Toor Dal)
8-10 pearl onions ,hulled and peeled
1 medium Plum Tomato choppeds
1 big Clove of Garlic
1/2 inch Ginger root or use 1/2 teaspoon Ginger garlic paste.
1/2 teaspoon Turmeric
1/2 teaspoon Red chilli powder or cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon each of Cumin and coriander powder or use 1 teaspoon sambar powder
1 tablespoon of tamarind paste in 11/2 cups of water
1 sprig of Curry leaves
1 Tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil or canola oil
1/2 teaspoon Cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
1/8 teaspoon fenugreek seeds(Methi)
1 teaspoon Salt
1-2 green chillies
Method
Cook the Lentils
Wash and Soak lentil for 10minutes.
Wash and soak the lentil for 5-10 minutes in a cup of water. Transfer in a pressure cooker or small saucepan with lid.Add another 1/2 cup of water ,season with salt,1/4 tsp each of turmeric and chilli powder.Cover and let cook on medium-high heat for about 10-12 minutes in pressure cooker and 45-50 minutes in the covered skillet until soft.When cooked mash or blend it to smooth paste.
Cook the Onions and mix in the mashed Lentils
Heat oil in a saucepan on medium high .Add the peal onions, green chillies and saute for a minute along with cumin seeds, mustard seeds and curry leaves. Add minced ginger and garlic saute for another minute before adding rest of the spices and tamarind juice. Simmer till Onions are tender,about 15 minutes, then mix in the cooked mashed lentils. Simmer for another 5 minutes.Serve warm with brown rice or idli or Vada.