Sambar is one of the most iconic and beloved dishes in South India. It is widely enjoyed as an accompaniment to popular staples like idli, dosa, and rice. This flavorful lentil-based curry, enriched with a blend of vegetables and aromatic spices, is a breakfast favourite in many South Indian households. Sambar powder is the key ingredient that determines the quality and flavour of a good sambar.
In the past, people often prepared sambar powder at home. However, nowadays, most prefer to purchase it directly from the market. With the growing demand, the market has become highly competitive, making it challenging to choose the best sambar powder. Here, we discuss how to choose the best authentic sambar powder from the market.
When selecting the best sambar powder, a thoughtful approach can make all the difference in achieving the authentic flavour you desire. Here are the key factors to consider:
1.Ingredients
Natural Spices: When choosing sambar powder, always check the ingredients carefully. Some brands add extra spices to stand out in the market, which may alter the taste and deviate from the authentic flavour of traditional sambar powder. Opt for blends made with high-quality natural spices such as coriander seeds, red chillies, fenugreek, turmeric, black pepper, and curry leaves—essential for authentic taste. Avoid brands that use artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives. Natural options not only offer a purer flavour but are also healthier.
2.Aroma
The perfect blend of spices in the right quantity and quality brings out the authentic aroma of sambar powder while cooking. Aroma plays a key role in identifying a dish, often revealing its name even before tasting. If possible, try smelling a sample packet before purchasing or start with a smaller pack for testing instead of a larger one. The aroma is often the first indicator of whether a dish is worth tasting.
3.Taste Preferences
Sambar is known for its unique taste and distinct aroma, which can vary slightly from region to region. Despite these variations, it retains a characteristic flavour profile. When choosing sambar powder, consider your regional taste preferences and spice levels.
Here’s a look at some regional variations:
Kerala Style: Kerala sambar is thicker in consistency, mildly spiced, and derives its tanginess from tamarind. It often includes a mix of vegetables, making it wholesome and flavorful.
Tamil Nadu Style: Tamil Nadu sambar is medium-spiced and tangy, with prominent flavours of red chillies, tamarind, and fresh coriander leaves.
Karnataka Style: Karnataka sambar has a slightly sweeter note, thanks to the inclusion of jaggery, balanced with tanginess from tamarind. It also features mild spiciness from chillies and a hint of earthiness from coconut.
Andhra Style: Andhra sambar is notably spicier compared to other regional variations, offering a bold and fiery flavour.
Choose the style that best aligns with your taste preferences to enjoy the authentic flavours of sambar.
4. Brand Reputation
The brand you choose plays a crucial role in determining the taste and quality of sambar powder. Trusted brands often have a history of delivering high-quality products consistently. Among the reputed names, Brahmins stands out as one of the best sambar powder brands in Kerala, renowned for offering authentic and flavorful sambar powder to its loyal customers.
Additionally, checking customer reviews can help you identify reputable brands and make an informed choice. Reviews provide valuable insights into the quality and authenticity of the product.
5.Organic and Health-Friendly Options
Opt for brands labelled as organic or preservative-free, as they are often made with higher-quality ingredients and free from harmful chemicals. Avoid brands that use artificial additives in their products, as they may compromise health and flavour. Choosing organic options ensures a healthier and more authentic culinary experience.
6.Packaging
Ensure that the product is packaged in airtight, secure packaging to preserve its freshness and aroma. Improperly packaged sambar powder can lose its rich flavour and risk contamination from external factors.
Proper packaging is essential to maintain the quality and authenticity of the product.
7.Expiry Date
Always check the manufacturing and expiry dates before purchasing to ensure you are buying a fresh product. Most brands also provide storage instructions on the packaging—follow these guidelines to maintain the product’s freshness and extend its shelf life.
By considering these factors, you can confidently select the best sambar powder from the market, that compliments your cooking style and delivers the authentic South Indian flavour you’re seeking.
As mentioned, there are various sambar powders available in the market, but for over a decade, Brahmins have stood out as the best sambar powder in Kerala, thanks to its unmatched quality and authentic aroma. Renowned for delivering the authentic Brahmins sambar taste, it has become a household favourite across Kerala.
The brand’s identity is rooted in its commitment to quality, using only organic ingredients and natural spices. Unlike other brands, Brahmins avoids artificial additives to enhance colour or aroma, ensuring a pure and authentic product.
Their meticulous manufacturing process ensures cleanliness and consistency at every step, preserving the true essence of sambar. Brahmins bring the rich, authentic taste of traditional sambar to your table. Additionally, their excellent packaging adds to the product’s appeal, ensuring freshness and making it a preferred choice for consumers. Create an unforgettable culinary experience with the best sambar powder in Kerala—Brahmins.