Cook the authentic Andhra mudda pappu

Source :Navya Y V | Dec 9, 2011, 12.00AM IST

The traditional andhra mudda pappu (tadke wali dal) is a simple yet delectable recipe which requires less effort and is less time consuming.

Mudda pappu (dal) marks the sumptuous beginning of the andhra thali without which the lunch or dinner will incomplete. Usually made of toor/arhar dal (called kandi pappu in telugu) and occasionally of Moong, this ubiquitous dal preparation makes the main course
Delectable in andhra households. It's simple and requires not more than couple of essential ingredients.

Ingredients:
- Arhar dal - 100gms
- Water - to cook
- Salt to taste
- Cumin seeds, mustard seeds, two to three dry red chilies, curry leaves
- For flavour - One tomato (optional)

Method:
- Steam cook the lentils or the dal. Do not add too much water. Only add The amount of water required to let the dal cook properly. Mudda pappu means daal which is not too liquid in consistency.

- Add a tadka of Mustard seeds, cumin seeds, red chilies and curry leaves in a little oil to this dal. If you like tomato, add tomato to the tadka, and let the tomato cook for a while and then transfer the tadka with tomato into the dal.

- Add salt to taste. Mix the dal along with the tadka in such a manner so that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

- What complements the mudda pappu is a little bit of ghee, along with a serve of piping hot rice and avakaya (mango pickle) in your platter.