Lentil Tamarind Stew (pappu Pulusu)

Lentil Tamarind Stew (Pappu Pulusu) is a traditional dish from the Telugu Cuisine, known for its tangy and savory flavors. This hearty stew is made with lentils, tamarind, and a blend of aromatic spices, making it a comforting and nutritious meal.

Lentil Tamarind Stew (pappu Pulusu)

Ingredients

  • 1 cup split pigeon peas (Toor dal)
  • 1 lemon-sized tamarind ball
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
  • 10-12 curry leaves
  • 3 cups water
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons oil

Instructions

  1. Rinse the split pigeon peas (Toor dal) and soak in water for 30 minutes.
  2. In a large pot, combine the soaked dal, chopped tomatoes, chopped onion, slit green chilies, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and water. Cook on medium heat until the dal is soft and mushy.
  3. Soak the tamarind in 1 cup of warm water for 15 minutes. Squeeze the tamarind to extract the pulp and strain the tamarind water into the cooked dal.
  4. Heat oil in a separate pan, add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, asafoetida, and curry leaves. Once the seeds splutter, pour this tempering over the dal mixture and stir well.
  5. Simmer the stew for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Add salt to taste and adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed.
  6. Remove from heat and serve the Lentil Tamarind Stew hot with steamed rice or roti.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
15 minutes
Cooking time:
30 minutes
Total time:
45 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
250 per serving
Carbohydrates
40g
Protein
15g
Fat
3g

Supplies

Large pot Strainer Serving bowls

Tools

Cooking spoon Knife Cutting board

Serving suggestions

Serving Suggestions: Enjoy the Lentil Tamarind Stew with a side of steamed rice, ghee, and a fresh cucumber-tomato salad.

Tips & tricks

Tips: Adjust the amount of tamarind and spices according to your taste preferences. You can also add vegetables like drumsticks, okra, or eggplant to enhance the stew.

Cost

$8