Pesarapappu Charu
A light and tangy lentil soup from Andhra, made with split yellow moong dal. This comforting and soupy dish is flavored with tamarind and a simple tempering of spices, making it a perfect accompaniment to steamed rice.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Pressure Cook the Dal
- b.In a 3-liter pressure cooker, combine the rinsed yellow moong dal, chopped tomatoes, slit green chilies, and turmeric powder.
- c.Add 3 cups of water and mix briefly.
- d.Secure the lid and pressure cook on medium heat for 3-4 whistles, or for about 10-12 minutes until the dal is completely soft and mushy.
- e.Allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the cooker.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Charu Base
- b.Once the pressure has released, open the cooker. Using a whisk or a masher, blend the cooked dal mixture until it is smooth and creamy.
- c.Stir in the tamarind paste, red chili powder, and salt.
- d.Add the remaining 1 cup of water (or more, if needed) to achieve a thin, soupy consistency. Mix everything well.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Simmer the Charu
- b.Place the cooker back on the stove over medium heat.
- c.Bring the charu to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes. This allows the raw flavor of the tamarind to cook off and the spices to meld.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Prepare the Tempering (Tadka)
- b.While the charu is simmering, heat ghee in a small tempering pan (tadka pan) over medium heat.
- c.Once the ghee is hot, add the mustard seeds and let them splutter completely.
- d.Add the cumin seeds, broken dried red chilies, crushed garlic, and curry leaves. Sauté for 30-45 seconds until the garlic is fragrant and turns light golden brown.
- e.Finally, add the asafoetida, give it a quick stir for 2 seconds, and immediately turn off the heat to prevent it from burning.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Combine and Serve
- b.Carefully pour the hot tempering into the simmering charu. It will sizzle, so stand back.
- c.Stir well to incorporate the tempering. Let it simmer for one more minute.
- d.Turn off the heat, garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves, and serve hot with steamed rice and a side of papad or vegetable stir-fry.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a creamier texture, soak the moong dal in water for 30 minutes before cooking.
- 2Always use ghee for the tempering for the most authentic and aromatic flavor.
- 3Do not over-boil the charu after adding the tempering, as it can diminish the aroma of the spices.
- 4A small piece of jaggery (about 1/2 teaspoon) can be added to balance the tanginess of the tamarind.
- 5The charu will thicken as it cools. Adjust the consistency with a little hot water before reheating and serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Vegetables
You can add vegetables like drumsticks, bottle gourd (sorakaya), or yellow cucumber (dosakaya) along with the dal while pressure cooking for a more wholesome version.
No GarlicNo Garlic
For a sattvic or no-garlic version, simply omit the garlic from the tempering. The charu will still be flavorful.
Different LentilDifferent Lentil
While traditionally made with moong dal, you can also make a similar charu using toor dal (kandi pappu) for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the number of green chilies and the amount of red chili powder for a spicier kick.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Yellow moong dal is an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Aids Digestion
This dish is light on the stomach and easy to digest. Spices like cumin and asafoetida (hing) are known to prevent bloating and improve digestion.
Low in Calories
Being a soupy lentil preparation with minimal oil, it is low in calories and fat, making it a great option for weight management and a healthy diet.
Boosts Immunity
The presence of turmeric, garlic, and other spices provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help strengthen the immune system.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. It's a light, protein-rich soup made from moong dal, which is known to be easy to digest. It's low in fat and calories, making it an excellent choice for a comforting and nutritious meal.