Perugu Charu | MAJJIGA PULUSU – Andhra-Style Spiced Buttermilk Stew

This comforting Andhra Perugu Charu is a tangy, spiced buttermilk stew made with curd, ginger, green chilies, and traditional tempering. Light, soothing, and full of flavor — it's the perfect summer dish to pair with hot rice and a dollop of ghee.
Ingredients
Main Mixture
- Curd1/2L
- Salt1tsp
- Water
Spice Paste
- Ginger1/2in
- Green chilies2
- Carom seeds1/4tsp
Tempering
- Oil2tbsp
- Mustard seeds1/2tsp
- Cumin seeds1/2tsp
- Chana dal1tsp
- Urad dal1tbsp
- Hing1pinch
- Dry red chilies2
- Garlic2clove
- Onion1
- Turmeric powder1/4tsp
- Curry leaves1sprigs
- Coriander leaves1tbsp
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
80.0kcal (4%)
Protein
2.1g (4.26%)
Carbs
3.8g (1.36%)
Sugars
1.8g (3.5%)
Healthy Fat
6.0g
Unhealthy Fat
1.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Perugu Charu | MAJJIGA PULUSU – Andhra-Style Spiced Buttermilk Stew
Prepare the Curd Mixture
- Step 1
Whisk the curd in a bowl with salt until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Blend the Spice Paste
- Step 1
Grind chopped ginger, green chilies, and carom seeds into a smooth paste using a small mixer jar. Add a little water if needed.
- Step 2
Mix this paste into the whisked curd. Set aside.
Tempering (Tadka)
- Step 1
Heat oil in a deep pan or kadai. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Step 2
Add cumin seeds, chana dal, urad dal, and a pinch of hing. Sauté until dals turn golden.
Add Aromatics
- Step 1
Add dry red chilies and crushed garlic. Sauté briefly.
- Step 2
Add sliced onions and turmeric powder. Cook on low flame until onions are just soft yet slightly crunchy.
- Step 3
Add curry leaves and let them sizzle.
Mix Everything
- Step 1
Turn off the heat to avoid curdling.
- Step 2
Pour the spiced curd mixture into the tempering.
- Step 3
Stir well and add water to reach desired consistency.
- Step 4
Taste and adjust salt.
- Step 5
Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
80.0kcal (4%)
Protein
2.1g (4.26%)
Carbs
3.8g (1.36%)
Sugars
1.8g (3.5%)
Healthy Fat
6.0g
Unhealthy Fat
1.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Slightly sour curd gives the best flavor.
Always turn off the stove before adding curd to avoid splitting.
You can skip onions if you want a no-onion version.
FAQS
What is Perugu Charu?
Perugu Charu is a traditional Andhra-style spiced buttermilk stew made with curd and aromatic spices.
Can I make Perugu Charu without onions?
Yes, you can skip onions if you prefer a no-onion version.
What can I serve with Perugu Charu?
Serve it hot over steamed rice with a spoon of ghee. It pairs well with Andhra-style aloo fry, crispy okra fry, papad, or pickle.
How do I prevent curd from splitting?
Always turn off the stove before adding curd to prevent it from splitting.
What variations can I try with Perugu Charu?
You can add vegetables like bottle gourd or ash gourd for extra texture.
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Rajani
(@thegourmetschoice)
Hi I like cooking and serving others. I have 15 Years of experience in cooking. When ever I get free time I will prepare delicious food. Hi I like cooking and serving others. I have 15 Years of experience in cooking. When ever I get free time I will prepare delicious...
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