Discovering South Indian Sambar in Manhattan: A Guide for Vegans and Vegetarians
Looking for a unique and hearty meal that will take you on a flavorful journey to South India? Manhattan, NY, is home to numerous Indian restaurants that offer authentic South Indian sambar to-go. This lentil soup is not just delicious but also packed with nutrition, making it a perfect choice for vegans and vegetarians. This article will guide you through the best options available in the area, share tips on how to prepare it at home, and provide a simple recipe for those who prefer to cook it themselves.
Best Indian Restaurants in Manhattan for Sambar
Manhattan is a diverse culinary hub, and visitors and locals alike can explore a wide range of flavors and cuisines. For South Indian sambar, Sarvana Bhavan stands out as a top pick, particularly the branch located at Lexington Avenue. This restaurant is renowned for its quality and authenticity, offering a variety of dishes, including sambar that can be taken to go.
Other noteworthy restaurants include Pongal and Saravana Bhavan on Lexington, where you can also enjoy sambar to-go. Chola is another option, though their sambar might not be as exceptional. It's advisable to proceed with a bit of caution when considering Bhojan, as it has received negative feedback from some customers.
For those who find themselves intrigued by sambar but want to explore more options, a quick Google search or a visit to Yelp can help. Many restaurants even offer sambar in pre-packaged to-go containers, making it convenient for on-the-go dining.
Preparing South Indian Sambar at Home
Feeling adventurous and short on time? You can make sambar at home with minimal effort. Most Indian grocery stores in the area offer frozen sambar vegetables, which are already packed and ready to use. Here’s a quick and easy recipe to make it in your microwave without the need for a pressure cooker.
Sambar Recipe - A Quick Guide to Vegetarian Sambar
Ingredients: Sambar vegetables (frozen or fresh) Sambar powder (available in Indian stores) Channa daal (chickpea dal) Oil or ghee Night shade vegetables (for garnish)
Steps: Place the sambar vegetables in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a spoonful of sambar powder and a small amount of channa daal to the bowl. Pour some oil or ghee over the vegetables, ensuring they are well coated. Place a microwave-safe lid on the bowl and microwave for 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are heated through. While the vegetables are being heated, you can start cooking your rice or other side dishes. Once ready, garnish with chopped night shade vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.
Enjoy your homemade sambar, which can be paired with rice or enjoyed as a standalone dish. The simplicity of this recipe allows you to easily customize it based on your preferences and availability of ingredients.
Conclusion
Manhattan offers a plethora of options for those seeking authentic South Indian sambar. Whether you decide to dine in at one of the best Indian restaurants or prepare it at home, sambar is a dish that can easily become a staple in your menu. Whether you are a seasoned vegan, a curious vegetarian, or simply searching for a unique flavor experience, sambar is a delightful choice.
The key to enjoying sambar to its fullest is to explore the options available and experiment with different establishments to find your favorite. Don't hesitate to reach out to these restaurants directly or consult online reviews for more personalized recommendations.