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A vibrant and tangy tomato curry from Andhra Pradesh, spiced with green chilies and a classic tempering. This simple yet flavorful dish, known locally as 'Tomato Pappu' or 'Tomato Charu' depending on consistency, comes together quickly and is a perfect comfort food pairing with hot rice or rotis.
For 4 servings
Prepare the Tempering (Tadka)
Sauté Aromatics
Cook Tomatoes and Spices
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A vibrant and tangy tomato curry from Andhra Pradesh, spiced with green chilies and a classic tempering. This simple yet flavorful dish, known locally as 'Tomato Pappu' or 'Tomato Charu' depending on consistency, comes together quickly and is a perfect comfort food pairing with hot rice or rotis.
This andhra recipe takes 35 minutes to prepare and yields 4 servings. At 188.65 calories per serving with 4.09g of protein, it's a beginner-friendly recipe perfect for lunch or dinner.
Simmer and Finish the Curry
Rest and Serve
For a richer, creamier texture, add 2 tablespoons of cashew paste or 1/4 cup of coconut milk during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
Make it a more substantial meal by adding 2-3 boiled and halved eggs or 200g of paneer cubes towards the end of the cooking time.
Incorporate vegetables like green peas, diced carrots, or bell peppers along with the onions to add more nutrition and texture.
For extra heat, add 1-2 dried red chilies to the tempering along with the mustard seeds.
Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and may reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.
The spices used, such as turmeric (containing curcumin), ginger, and garlic, possess potent natural anti-inflammatory effects that can help combat chronic inflammation in the body.
This curry is low in saturated fat and cholesterol. The lycopene in tomatoes has been linked to lower levels of 'bad' LDL cholesterol and blood pressure, promoting overall cardiovascular wellness.
Spices like cumin, coriander, and asafoetida are known to stimulate digestive enzymes. The fiber from the onions and tomatoes also contributes to a healthy digestive system.
One serving of this Tomato Kura recipe contains approximately 175-190 calories, making it a light and healthy main dish. The exact count can vary based on the type and amount of oil used.
Yes, Tomato Kura is a very healthy dish. It is rich in lycopene from tomatoes, an antioxidant linked to numerous health benefits. It's also plant-based, low in calories, and packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and spices.
Absolutely. For a 'satvik' or Jain version, you can skip the onions and ginger-garlic paste. To compensate for the flavor, you can increase the amount of asafoetida (hing) slightly and add a bit more tomato.
To achieve a thicker gravy, ensure you cook the tomatoes until they are completely mushy and oil separates. You can also simmer the curry for a few extra minutes without a lid. For a quick fix, mix 1 tablespoon of roasted gram flour (besan) with 3 tablespoons of water to form a paste and add it to the simmering curry.
This versatile curry pairs wonderfully with hot steamed rice (especially with a dollop of ghee), roti, chapati, phulka, or even South Indian staples like dosa and idli. A side of plain yogurt or a simple cucumber raita helps balance the tangy and spicy flavors.
You can store leftover Tomato Kura in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen and become even better the next day. Reheat thoroughly before serving.