Tomato Pappu | Andhra Style Tomato Dal

Ingredients

• 1/2 Cup Kandi Pappu, Tuvar Dal, Pigeon Pea ((~125 gms))
• 1 Large Tomato ((~75 gms))
• Salt to Taste
• 1 tsp Coriander Seeds
• 1/2 tsp Cumin Seeds
• 1/4 tsp Peppercorns
• 1 tsp Mustard Seeds
• 1/2 tsp Cumin Seeds
• 2 or 3 Spicy Green Chillies
• 1/2 tsp Ghee
• 1/4 tsp Turmeric
• A Few Curry Leaves

Instructions

1. 1

   --- Getting the Tuvar Dal Ready ---

2. 2

   Dry roast the dal till it is light brown. This is an optional step but it lends a beautiful flavour to the dal.

3. 3

   Soak the dal in 1 cup of water for 30 minutes. Again an optional step but helps the dal cook well.

4. 4

   On medium heat, pressure cook the dal for 3 to 4 whistles.

5. 5

   When the cooker cools, remove the dal and mash it well. Set aside.

6. 6

   --- Making the Charu Podi ---

7. 7

   Grind the coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and peppercorns to a coarse powder.

8. 8

   --- Other Preparations ---

9. 9

   Chop the tomato into 1/2" pieces.

10. 10

    Make slits in the green chillies.

11. 11

    --- Making the Tomato Pappu ---

12. 12

    In a heavy bottomed vessel, heat the ghee.

13. 13

    Add mustard seeds and wait till they splutter.

14. 14

    Add cumin seeds and stir-fry for a few seconds.

15. 15

    Add green chillies and curry leaves, and stir-fry for a few seconds.

16. 16

    Add the tomato pieces, salt and turmeric, and stir-fry till the tomato pieces are soft.

17. 17

    Add charu podi and mashed dal, and mix well.

18. 18

    Let the dal cook for a couple minutes.

19. 19

    Serve with hot rice and ghee, and papad on the side.