Sambar powder is a quintessential spice blend used in South Indian cuisine, particularly in the preparation of sambar, a flavorful and nutritious lentil-based stew. It's an essential ingredient in many South Indian households and is also widely available commercially.

To prepare sambar, the sambar powder is usually dry-roasted to enhance the flavors of the spices, then ground into a fine powder. This powder is then added to the sambar along with cooked lentils, vegetables, tamarind extract, and other seasonings to create a delicious and aromatic stew.

Sambar is typically served with rice, dosa (fermented rice and lentil crepes), idli (steamed rice and lentil cakes), or vada (deep-fried lentil fritters). It's not only tasty but also a nutritious dish, as it contains a good balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins from the lentils and vegetables.