Andhra Style Chama Dumpa Pulusu (Arbi with Sesame Tamarind Sauce)
Andhra cuisine offers a delightful variety of flavorful dishes that bring together rich textures and vibrant spices. One such classic recipe is Andhra Style Chama Dumpa Pulusu, a comforting and tangy dish made with arbi (colocasia root) cooked in a savory sesame tamarind sauce. Known for its perfect balance of flavors, this dish is a wonderful option for a weekday lunch or dinner. The richness of roasted sesame seeds and the tanginess of tamarind come together beautifully with the mild bitterness of arbi, making this dish a beloved choice in many Andhra households.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Colocasia root (Arbi) | 250 grams |
| Tamarind Paste | 2 teaspoons |
| Green Chillies (slit) | 4 |
| Sesame seeds (Til seeds) | 3 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | As required |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | Few |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | Few sprigs, chopped |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Instructions
1. Preparing the Arbi (Colocasia root):
Begin by peeling the arbi carefully, as it has a slightly sticky texture. Once peeled, cut the arbi into bite-sized cubes. Place the pieces in a pot of water and boil them until tender. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the water and set the arbi aside.
2. Preparing Tamarind Extract:
Soak the tamarind paste in enough water for about 10 minutes. After soaking, extract the pulp and set aside for later use. This tangy base will add depth to the dish.
3. Roasting Sesame Seeds:
In a dry pan, add the sesame seeds. Roast them over medium heat until they turn golden and release a nutty fragrance. This step brings out the sesame’s natural flavor, which will give the dish its characteristic richness. Once roasted, allow the seeds to cool and then grind them into a fine powder.
4. Tempering Spices:
Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them pop for a few seconds, releasing their aromatic flavors. Immediately stir in the turmeric powder, followed by the slit green chillies and curry leaves. Sauté the mixture for a few seconds, allowing the spices to release their essence.
5. Adding Arbi:
Now, add the boiled arbi pieces to the pan. Stir gently to coat them with the spices. Let them fry for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
6. Adding Tamarind and Sesame Powder:
Pour the tamarind extract into the pan and add salt to taste. Stir well to combine the tamarind’s tangy flavor with the spices. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the arbi to soak in the flavors.
Next, sprinkle the roasted sesame powder into the pan. Stir again, ensuring that the sesame powder is evenly incorporated into the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Final Touches:
Once the dish has thickened to your desired consistency, turn off the heat. Garnish with fresh, chopped coriander leaves to add a burst of color and freshness.
8. Serving:
Serve the Andhra Style Chama Dumpa Pulusu hot, ideally paired with soft Phulkas (Indian flatbreads) and a side of Kachumber Salad (a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad). This dish is perfect for a comforting and tangy meal during the week, offering a balance of textures and flavors that everyone will love.
Tips & Variations:
- Heat level: You can adjust the spiciness of the dish by adding more or fewer green chillies according to your taste.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thinner sauce, feel free to add a little water when simmering the tamarind extract.
- Vegan option: This recipe is naturally vegan, making it a perfect choice for those following plant-based diets.
- Serving suggestion: For a complete meal, pair this dish with steamed rice or Jeera Rice for a fulfilling, aromatic feast.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 26 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
| Potassium | 550 mg |
Conclusion:
Andhra Style Chama Dumpa Pulusu is a traditional yet simple dish that brings together the earthy flavors of arbi with the tanginess of tamarind and the richness of sesame. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to explore the authentic flavors of Andhra cuisine, especially during the weekday hustle when you crave a quick, satisfying meal. Whether you serve it with phulkas or rice, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home!
