Sambar - Madras vegetable stew

Serves 6 in about 1 hour

1 Jar Madras Masala Curry
1 medium potatoes
¼ lb fresh okra
2 fresh tomatoes
small eggplant
small yellow squash
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 cup yellow split peas
1 cup water
Note: you may substitute any of the above vegetables, those listed are the classic vegetables used in this recipe.

Follow directions on package to cook yellow split peas. Otherwise, rinse lentils thoroughly and remove any stones/dirt that may be present. Add 2 ½ cups water, salt and cook in microwave-safe bowl until done about 30 minutes (Lentils are tender and soft, when pressed between fingertips). While lentils are cooking, peel and cube potatoes. Cut squash, eggplant and tomatoes and set aside in a bowl. In a large saucepan, warm vegetable oil on medium heat and fry mustard seeds for 30 seconds ( careful- mustard seeds pop). Pour Madras Masala curry in the saucepan for a minute. Add the vegetables and water and stir. Add the lentils and stir. Continue cooking on medium heat until vegetables are done (about 20 minutes) Taste and add salt if necessary. Sambar is soup-like. Serve hot with rice or bread.