Pesarattu is one of Andhra Pradesh's most loved breakfast dishes, and the right curry makes it even more delicious. This simple pesarattu curry is made with onions, tomatoes, roasted gram, and aromatic spices. It is creamy, mildly spicy, and pairs perfectly with hot pesarattu, dosa, idli, or even chapati.
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 2 medium onions (chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (chopped)
- 2 tbsp roasted gram (putnalu)
- 2 tbsp grated coconut (optional)
- 3 green chillies
- 4 garlic cloves
- ½ inch ginger
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chilli powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp oil
- 2 cups water
- Fresh coriander leaves
For Tempering
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp urad dal
- 1 tsp chana dal
- 2 dried red chillies
- A few curry leaves
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
How to Make Pesarattu Curry
Step 1: Prepare the Masala
Heat one tablespoon of oil in a pan. Add onions, green chillies, ginger, and garlic. Sauté until the onions become soft. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn mushy.
Now add roasted gram and grated coconut. Cook for another minute and switch off the flame. Allow the mixture to cool completely.
Step 2: Grind the Mixture
Transfer the cooled mixture into a mixer jar. Add a little water and grind into a smooth paste.
Step 3: Cook the Curry
Heat another tablespoon of oil in the same pan. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, urad dal, chana dal, dried red chillies, curry leaves, and a pinch of hing. Let them splutter.
Pour the ground paste into the pan. Add turmeric powder, red chilli powder, salt, and two cups of water. Mix well and cook on medium flame for 8–10 minutes until the curry thickens slightly.
Finally, garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hot and flavourful curry with:
- Pesarattu
- Upma Pesarattu
- Dosa
- Idli
- Chapati
A spoon of ghee over hot pesarattu with this curry takes the taste to the next level.
Tips for the Best Pesarattu Curry
- Roast the onions well to bring out a rich flavour.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more or less water.
- Coconut gives a creamy texture but can be skipped.
- For extra spice, add one more green chilli while grinding.
- Fresh coriander added at the end enhances the aroma.
Final Thoughts
This Andhra-style pesarattu curry is simple to prepare and packed with flavour. Made using everyday kitchen ingredients, it is a delicious accompaniment that complements crispy green gram pesarattu beautifully. Try this easy recipe at home and enjoy a wholesome South Indian breakfast with your family.

