Tomato Sambar for Idli/Dosa | Side Dish for Idli Dosa

This Tomato sambar is an easy-to-make and a perfect side dish for idli and dosa. Always a staple side dish at our home this is a simple sambar which can be done in less than 30 minutes. Made using the freshest ingredients, it is an all-time favorite. This also makes an excellent combo for parotta.

Ingredients:
Tomato - 1 - chopped fine
Onions - Chopped - 1 cup
Oil - 2 tsp
Mustard seeds - 1/2 tsp
Curry leaves - a few
Salt - to taste
Make a paste:
Grated coconut - 1/4 cup
Roasted gram dhal/pottukadalai - 2 tbsp
Cloves - 3
Cinnamon - 1" piece
Fennel seeds - 1 tsp
Turmeric powder - 1/4 tsp
Chilli powder - 1/2 tsp or 3/4 tsp (based on spice level)
Coriander seeds  - 1/2 tsp
Tomatoes - 2

Method:
Grind together the ingredients under 'Make a Paste' in a blender/mixie. No need to add any water as the juice in the tomatoes would be enough to give the consistency. Heat oil in a wide pan, and add the mustard seeds to splutter. Throw the curry leaves in, followed by the chopped onions. Fry until the onions turns translucent and add the chopped tomatoes and fry until mushy. Now add the ground paste and 3 cups of water. Add salt and allow it to boil until the raw smell of the gram dhal disappears. Serve hot with steamed idlis or crispy dosas.
Tip: You may ignore adding the chopped tomatoes while frying and add it while grinding the masala.