Sambar, an exquisite creation, is a melange of cooked dal, tamarind pulp, and an assortment of vegetables, including drumstick, tomato, carrot, and pumpkin, harmoniously united by the aromatic blend of green coriander and a carefully curated collection of spices, resulting in the delectable “SAMBAR(सांबर).”
Discover a culinary delight at Lalco Cafe, a leading multi-cuisine cafe in Andheri, Mumbai. Experience the essence of authenticity with our renowned Sambar, making us the best cafe in Mumbai’s vibrant Andheri locale.
But where did this culinary marvel originate, you may wonder? While it is commonly associated with South Indian cuisine, its birthplace can be traced to a chef from the historical region of Maharashtra. Sambar was invented by the Maratha ruler Shivaji’s royal chef, Sambhaji, hence the name “sambar.”
Lalco Cafe which is also located in Mumbai, Maharashtra, proudly serves the most flavorsome and authentic Sambar you’ll ever taste. Indulge in the perfect blend of spices and richness that defines our renowned Sambar experience!
The History of Sambar
Let’s delve into the intriguing history of Sambar. The story takes us to the kitchens of the Maratha dynasty in Thanjavur. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s half-brother, Vyankoji (Ekoji), was the ruler of Thanjavur. Upon his demise in 1684, Vyankoji’s son, Shahuji, ascended to power, presiding over the realm. During this period, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj paid a visit to Thanjavur. However, on that particular day in Shahuji Maharaj’s kitchen, there was a shortage of kokum, a key ingredient for the curry (amti). In a stroke of culinary improvisation, someone suggested substituting tamarind (chinch) for kokum, and thus, tamarind curry (amti) came into being.
In honor of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, this innovative dish was christened “Sambar,” a fusion of “Sambhaji” and “Ahar” (referring to Sambhaji Maharaj’s diet). This unique curry soon found its way into diverse Indian regions, adopting a medley of ingredients along the way, and is now celebrated as the beloved Sambar.
South Indian cuisine has become synonymous with Sambar, and its absence would leave a void in the rich tapestry of South Indian culinary culture. Whether you are dipping your dosa, dunking your idli or vada, or generously pouring it over steamed rice, Sambar holds an esteemed place in the hearts of Indians.
At Lalco Cafe, we take pride in serving a delightful combination of Idli, Medu Vada, and Onion Uttapam paired with authentic Sambar and Chutney. Our skilled chefs meticulously prepare Sambar using our homemade Sambar Masala recipe to ensure an experience that captures the essence of this iconic dish. Whether you are a seasoned Sambar connoisseur or a newcomer to its flavors, we invite you to savor the authentic taste of Sambar at Lalco Cafe, where each bite tells a story of tradition and innovation.
