Majjiga Charu (Buttermilk Rasam) is a classic, comforting South Indian dish, especially popular in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. It is a light, tangy, and soothing buttermilk-based soup, often considered the South Indian cousin of North Indian Kadhi, but much lighter and usually prepared without pakoras. It is commonly served with hot steamed rice for a simple and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For Majjiga (Spiced Buttermilk):
- Curd (slightly sour) – 1 cup
- Water – 1½ to 2 cups
- Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp
- Salt – to taste
- Green chillies – 2 (slit)
- Ginger – 1 inch (grated)
- Coriander leaves – 1 tbsp (chopped)
For Tempering (Talimpu/Popu):
- Oil – 1 tbsp
- Mustard seeds – ½ tsp
- Cumin seeds – ½ tsp
- Chana dal – ½ tsp
- Urad dal – ½ tsp
- Onion – 1 small (finely chopped)
- Hing (asafoetida) – a pinch
- Dry red chillies – 2
- Curry leaves – few
Preparation Steps
- Whisk the Buttermilk:
Blend curd and water until smooth. Add turmeric and salt, mix well. - Make Tempering:
Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, chana dal, and urad dal. Fry till golden. - Add Onion & Spices:
Add chopped onion, sauté till translucent. Add hing, dry red chillies, curry leaves, green chillies, and ginger. - Mix & Heat:
Pour the buttermilk mixture into the pan and stir on low flame. - Warm Gently:
Heat for 2–3 minutes, but do not boil. - Finish:
Add chopped coriander leaves, cover, and rest for 1 minute.
Tips
- Keep flame low to avoid curdling.
- Slightly sour curd gives authentic Andhra taste.
- Onions balance tanginess with mild sweetness.
- Adjust water for desired consistency.
Health Benefits
- Aids digestion and cools the body.
- Rich in probiotics and light on the stomach.
- Ideal summer dish to balance body heat.
Variations
- Majjiga Pulusu: Add boiled bottle gourd or ash gourd.
- Allam Majjiga: Add extra ginger for spicy flavor.
- Pachi Majjiga Charu: Mix raw ingredients without tempering.
Why It’s Loved
Digestive Aid:
Light, cooling, and easy on the stomach, making it ideal for hot weather.
Quick to Make:
Takes very little time compared to other curries and dals.
Perfect Pairing:
Best enjoyed with steamed rice and a spicy fry like potato fry or ivy gourd fry for a balanced and comforting meal.