Ridge Gourd Lentil Curry (beerakaya Pappu Pulusu)

Ridge Gourd Lentil Curry, also known as Beerakaya Pappu Pulusu, is a traditional dish from Telugu Cuisine that combines the goodness of ridge gourd and lentils in a flavorful tamarind-based curry.

Ridge Gourd Lentil Curry (beerakaya Pappu Pulusu)

Ingredients

  • 1 medium ridge gourd, peeled and chopped
  • 1 cup split pigeon peas (toor dal), washed
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2-3 green chilies, slit
  • 1 tomato, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tbsp tamarind paste
  • 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
  • A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
  • Few curry leaves
  • 2-3 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. In a pressure cooker, add washed toor dal, chopped ridge gourd, onion, tomato, green chilies, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Add 3 cups of water and pressure cook for 3-4 whistles.
  2. Once the pressure releases, open the cooker and add tamarind paste. Mix well and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  3. In a separate small pan, heat oil and add mustard seeds. When they start to splutter, add cumin seeds, asafoetida, and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds and pour this tempering over the cooked dal and ridge gourd mixture.
  4. Stir well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Adjust the consistency by adding water if needed.
  5. Remove from heat and serve 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
180 per serving
Protein
8g
Carbohydrates
25g
Fat
6g

Supplies

Pressure cooker Pan

Tools

Knife Cutting board Spatula

Serving suggestions

Serving suggestions: Enjoy with steamed rice or Indian bread like roti or naan.

Tips & tricks

Tips: Adjust the spice levels according to your preference and add more water if you prefer a thinner consistency for the curry.

Cost

$8