Sambar is a lentil-based vegetable stew, cooked with pigeon pea and tamarind broth. It is originated from South Indian cuisine and now popular in large parts of India and beyond. The stew is similar to an other Burmese cuisine dish used as a popular accompaniment to Burmese curries. It has also been introduced into the culinary habits of Sri Lanka since the 20th century, among many other elements of South Indian cookery.

A stew is a combination of solid food ingredients that have been cooked in liquid and served in the resultant gravy. Ingredients can include any combination of vegetables and may include meat, especially tougher meats suitable for slow-cooking, such as beef, pork, venison, rabbit, lamb, poultry, sausages, and seafood. While water can be used as the stew-cooking liquid, stock is also common. A small amount of red wine or other alcohol is sometimes added for flavour. Seasonings and flavourings may also be added. Stews are typically cooked at a relatively low temperature, allowing flavours to mingle.