ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Sambar (dish)

Sambar is a type of food that is very popular in India. It is usually eaten with rice or bread, like a big soup or stew. The main ingredients in sambar are lentils (which are like little seeds that you can cook and eat), vegetables, and a special spice mix called sambar powder.

First, someone called a cook takes the lentils and boils them in water until they are soft and mushy. Then they add lots of different vegetables, like carrots, onions, tomatoes, and potatoes. These vegetables are cut into small pieces and are also cooked until they are very soft.

Next, the cook adds the special sambar powder, which is made up of lots of different spices (like turmeric, coriander, and cumin). These spices make the sambar taste very yummy and give it its unique flavor.

Finally, everything is mixed together and simmered for a while so that all the flavors can blend together. The sambar is ready to eat! It's usually served in a big bowl with rice or bread. Some people like to add a little bit of spicy sauce called chutney on top, while others prefer to eat it just as it is.