Beerakaya Pappu is a nourishing Indian lentil dish cooked with aromatic spices and a flavorful tempering. This high protein vegetarian staple is DASH-friendly, budget-conscious, and perfect for healthy family meals.
Rinse the toor dal thoroughly, then soak it in water for 20 minutes for faster and even cooking.
In a pressure cooker, add soaked toor dal, ridge gourd, tomato, onion, turmeric powder, green chili, and 3 cups water. Cook on medium heat for 3 whistles, then allow pressure to release naturally.
Mash the cooked dal and vegetables gently with a ladle for a creamy yet textured consistency. Add salt and mix well.
Heat oil in a small pan on medium heat. Add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter, then immediately add cumin seeds, dried red chilies, curry leaves, sliced garlic, and asafoetida. Stir continuously to avoid burning the spices.
Pour the hot tempering (tadka) over the cooked dal mixture and stir to combine. Simmer the pappu for another 5 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Serve hot.