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)
I’m Rajani, a passionate cook with over 15 years of experience creating delicious, approachable dishes. My love for food began in childhood, inspired by watching Sanjeev Kapoor’s Khana Khazana with my mom and helping her in the kitchen. On The Gourmet’s Hut, I share tried-and-tested authentic Indian recipes and quick microwave mug cake recipes perfect for busy days. My goal is to make cooking simple, flavorful, and fun—because food brings people together and every meal should create memories. I’m Rajani, a passionate cook with over 15 years of experience creating delicious, approachable dishes. My love for food began in childhood, inspired by watching...
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