Sambar

• red or yellow lentil250g g
• turmeric↗½ tsp tsp
• tamarind↗1 tbsp tbsp

  paste

• vegetable oil↗2 tbsp tbsp
• small shallots↗2

  finely chopped

• ground asafoetida↗½ tsp tsp
• ground fenugreek½ tsp tsp
• black mustard seeds½ tsp tsp
• curry leaves↗10
• small dried red chillies↗7
• green bean↗140g g

  trimmed and cut in half

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Place the lentils in a large pan with 400ml water. Add turmeric and tamarind and boil for 25-30 mins until very soft.

2. 2

   Meanwhile, heat the oil in a frying pan and gently fry the shallots for 8-10 mins. When softened, add the spices, curry leaves, chillies and a good pinch of salt. Cook for another 2 mins, until fragrant.

3. 3

   Boil another pan of salted water and cook the beans for 4 mins until tender, then drain well.

4. 4

   Once the lentils are cooked, add the shallot spice mix and the beans, stir well and add more seasoning if necessary.