Authentic South Indian Sambar Recipe (Instant Pot & Stovetop)

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1. 1Step 1: Set the Instant Pot to Saute (More) mode and heat the oil. Add the mustard seeds and cook until they start to pop. Add hing, curry leaves, onion, and garlic and saute for 2 minutes.
2. 2Step 2: Add tomato, carrot, bottle gourd, and drumstick beans, turmeric, salt, and sambar powder and mix well. Add toor dal and water and give a quick stir.
3. 3Step 3: Close the Instant Pot with the steam release handle to sealing. Pressure Cook (High) for 8 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally and open the pot. Mix the dal well, mashing with the back of the spoon.
4. 4Step 4: Stir in tamarind. Add more water if needed to bring the sambar to the desired consistency. Note: sambar will continue to thicken as it cools down. Add more salt and sambar powder to taste. Select the Saute (More) setting and bring the sambar to a full boil. Press Cancel. Garnish with cilantro. Serve hot.