Discover the rich flavors of Seeni Sambol, a traditional Sri Lankan relish made with caramelized onions, aromatic spices, and a hint of sweetness. This savory-sweet condiment is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your meals. Learn how to prepare this delicious, versatile dish with our easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients:

- 3 large onions, finely sliced

- 2 tbsp vegetable oil

- 2 tbsp brown sugar

- 1 tbsp tamarind paste

- 1 tsp chili powder

- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder

- 1/2 tsp mustard seeds

- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds

- 1/4 tsp fenugreek seeds

- 2-3 curry leaves

- Salt to taste

Instructions:

Heat Oil: In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Cook Spices: Add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and fenugreek seeds. Cook until they start to pop.

Add Onions: Add the finely sliced onions and curry leaves. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn golden brown and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.

Add Spices and Sugar: Stir in the chili powder, turmeric powder, and brown sugar. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sugar to dissolve and the spices to blend.

Add Tamarind: Mix in the tamarind paste and cook for another 5 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt to taste.

Cool and Serve: Remove from heat and let the Seeni Sambol cool before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Enjoy your Seeni Sambol with rice, bread, or as a flavorful topping for various dishes!

Nutritional values

Onions (3 large, finely sliced)

- Calories: 120

- Carbohydrates: 30g

- Fiber: 4g

Benefits: Onions are rich in antioxidants and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. They support heart health, aid digestion, and contribute to overall immune function.

Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons)

- Calories: 240

- Fat: 28g

Benefits: Provides essential fats for cooking. While it adds calories, it is used to enhance flavor and texture in the dish.

Brown Sugar (2 tablespoons)

- Calories: 90

- Carbohydrates: 24g

Benefits: Adds sweetness to balance the flavors. It contains small amounts of minerals like calcium, potassium, and iron, though it should be used in moderation.

Tamarind Paste (1 tablespoon)

- Calories: 20

- Carbohydrates: 5g

Benefits: Tamarind paste provides a tangy flavor and is rich in antioxidants. It contains vitamin C and can aid digestion.

Chili Powder (1 teaspoon)

- Calories: 6

Benefits: Adds heat and contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and support digestive health.

Turmeric Powder (1/2 teaspoon)

- Calories: 4

Benefits: Contains curcumin, which has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, supporting overall health.

Mustard Seeds (1/2 teaspoon)

- Calories: 5

Benefits: Mustard seeds have antioxidant properties and support digestion. They contain healthy fats and minerals.

Cumin Seeds (1/2 teaspoon)

- Calories: 4

Benefits: Supports digestion, has antioxidant properties, and enhances the flavor of dishes.

Fenugreek Seeds (1/4 teaspoon)

- Calories: 2

Benefits: Fenugreek seeds are rich in fiber and antioxidants. They can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve digestion.

Curry Leaves (2-3 leaves)

- Calories: 2

Benefits: Curry leaves add flavor and provide antioxidants. They support digestion and may help with blood sugar regulation.

Salt (to taste)

- Calories: 0

- Sodium: Varies based on amount used

Benefits: Enhances flavor but should be used in moderation to manage sodium intake.

This dish features a rich combination of onions and spices. Onions provide flavor and numerous health benefits, including antioxidants and digestive support. Vegetable oil adds necessary fats for cooking. Brown sugar balances flavors with its sweetness, while tamarind paste contributes tanginess and additional nutrients. The spices—chili powder, turmeric, mustard seeds, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, and curry leaves—offer various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and digestive support. Salt enhances the overall taste but should be used judiciously.