Moong Dal Rasam/Pesara Pappu Charu: Lemon Infused Indian Lentil Soup
Description
The Moong Dal Rasam, also known as Pesara Pappu Charu, is a warm, comforting lentil soup native to South India. Infused with aromatic spices and a hint of lemon, this dish is not only flavorful but also healing, offering a perfect balance of protein and essential nutrients. The turmeric in the dal and the addition of ginger, green chillies, and coriander elevate the taste, while also making this soup a perfect remedy for various ailments. It’s a great option for a high-protein vegetarian lunch, perfect for any occasion when you want a nourishing yet light meal.
Cuisine:
South Indian
Course:
Lunch
Diet:
High Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yellow Moong Dal (Split) | 1 cup |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Green Chillies | 2, slit lengthwise |
| Ginger | 1 inch, grated or chopped |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Salt | To taste |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | 4 sprigs, finely chopped |
For the Seasoning
| Ingredients for Seasoning | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Dry Red Chillies | 2 |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A generous pinch |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
25 minutes
Instructions
-
Preparation of Moong Dal:
Begin by thoroughly washing the yellow moong dal under running water. Rinse the dal 2-3 times to remove any impurities. Once clean, place the dal in a saucepan and add 3 cups of water along with 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder. Stir well to combine the ingredients. -
Cooking the Dal:
Heat the saucepan on medium heat, bringing the dal mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the dal cook until it becomes soft and tender, which should take about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can pressure cook the dal for 3 to 4 whistles, then allow the pressure to release naturally. This will speed up the cooking process. -
Mashing the Dal:
Once the dal is cooked and soft, use a potato masher to mash the dal thoroughly, ensuring it becomes a smooth, creamy texture. Add the slit green chillies, grated ginger, chopped coriander, and curry leaves to the dal, stirring well. -
Simmering the Rasam:
Add salt to taste and return the dal mixture to the heat. Allow it to simmer for 10-12 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. If the consistency seems too thick, add a little water and continue to simmer until the rasam reaches your desired consistency. -
Lemon Infusion:
Once the rasam has boiled and thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat. Squeeze in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to give it a tangy finish. Stir gently to incorporate. -
Seasoning the Rasam:
In a small tadka pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee over medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds and 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds, followed by 2 dry red chillies. As the mustard seeds begin to crackle, quickly add a pinch of asafoetida and a sprig of curry leaves. Turn off the heat once the seasoning is ready. -
Finishing Touch:
Pour the prepared seasoning over the cooked moong dal rasam and stir gently to mix all the flavors. Adjust the salt as needed, then transfer the rasam to a serving bowl. -
Serving Suggestion:
Moong Dal Rasam/Pesara Pappu Charu is best enjoyed with a vegetable of your choice, such as sautéed greens or a vegetable stir-fry, alongside steamed rice for a wholesome South Indian meal.
This Moong Dal Rasam is not only a comforting, soothing soup but also a nutritious addition to your diet, with a rich source of protein from the moong dal. It’s a perfect dish to enjoy on its own or as part of a larger meal. Enjoy the flavors of South India with this rejuvenating lentil soup!
