Pappu charu is a traditional Andhra-style dal-based dish, similar to sambar but without sambar powder. It is a tangy, mildly spiced lentil soup made with toor dal (pigeon pea lentils), tamarind, and simple spices. Unlike sambar, which uses a spice blend, pappu charu relies on the natural flavors of lentils, tamarind, and basic tempering ingredients like mustard seeds, curry leaves, and red chilies.