Andhra Style Pappu Charu Recipe
This traditional Andhra Style Pappu Charu recipe is a flavorful and comforting lentil soup, rich in protein and ideal for a wholesome meal. Pappu Charu, often served as a main dish, is prepared with pigeon peas (arhar dal) cooked with a medley of spices, vegetables, and tamarind, resulting in a tangy, spiced delight that pairs perfectly with rice. This dish embodies the essence of Andhra cuisine, with its robust flavors and simple preparation.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pigeon pea (Arhar dal) | 1 cup | Rinsed and soaked for 15-20 minutes |
| Green chilies or dry red chilies | 3 | Adjust to spice preference |
| Garlic cloves | 10 | Grated or crushed |
| Tomato | 1 | Chopped |
| Onion | 1 | Chopped |
| Tamarind paste | 2 tbsp | |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 tsp | |
| Salt | To taste | |
| Ghee | 2 tbsp | |
| Curry leaves | 6 | |
| Mustard seeds (Rye) | 1 tsp | |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
Preparation Time: 16 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 46 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Andhra
Course: Lunch
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Soak the Lentils
Start by washing the pigeon peas (arhar dal) thoroughly. Soak them in water for about 15 to 20 minutes to soften them. -
-
Cook the Lentils and Vegetables
In a pressure cooker, add the soaked dal, chopped tomatoes, onions, green chilies (or dry red chilies), 6 cloves of garlic, turmeric powder, and 2 cups of water. Stir everything together.
Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook for 4-5 whistles over medium heat. Once the pressure is released naturally, let the cooker cool down. -
Mash the Dal
After the cooker cools, open the lid and mash the dal gently with a spoon to your desired consistency. -
Add Tamarind and Season
Add the tamarind paste, salt, 1 cup of water, and the remaining 4 cloves of garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer until it thickens slightly, stirring occasionally. -
Prepare the Tempering (Tadka)
In a small pan, heat the ghee. Once hot, add the mustard seeds (rye) and allow them to splutter. After they splutter, add a pinch of asafoetida and curry leaves. Let them cook for about 15 seconds, releasing their aromatic flavor. -
Combine Tadka with Dal
Pour the prepared tempering into the simmering dal and stir well to combine. Allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes. -
Serve
Your Andhra Style Pappu Charu is now ready to be served hot! Pair it with steamed rice and a side of Chow Chow Thoran or any vegetable stir-fry for a complete meal.
Notes:
- Adjust the Spice Level: You can modify the number of green chilies or dry red chilies depending on your preference for spice.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, add a little more water to the dal while cooking.
- Side Dishes: Pappu Charu is traditionally served with steamed rice, but it also pairs wonderfully with crispy papad or a simple vegetable stir-fry like chow chow thoran.
This Andhra Style Pappu Charu recipe brings the bold, tangy flavors of Andhra cuisine to your kitchen. The blend of tamarind, garlic, and mustard seeds creates a delightful aroma and taste that will make this dish a regular part of your meal rotation.
