This delicious and comforting South Indian lentil stew is made with radish, moong dal, and aromatic spices. It is a hearty, protein-packed dish that is a tasty way to enjoy radishes.
Mullangi Kootu is a humble yet incredibly flavorful South Indian radish and lentil curry. Don’t let the simple ingredients fool you – this vegetarian dish packs a serious punch of comfort and nutrition.
About the Recipe
This is it if you’re looking for a new way to enjoy radishes. Mullangi Kootu transforms the humble radish into a star ingredient in a hearty, protein-rich lentil stew. Best of all, it’s easy to make and seriously delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to love about this classic radish curry. The aromatic spices will make your kitchen smell heavenly. The creamy lentils and tender radish cubes create the most comforting texture. And the burst of fresh coriander and green chilies add the perfect finishing touch of bright flavor.
Cooking Tips
For best results, cook the lentils until just soft – overdoing it can make them mushy. Also, don’t skip the tempering oil with mustard seeds, curry leaves and chillies – it adds an irresistible depth of flavor. Finally, use fresh radishes for maximum crunch.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
This curry makes a wonderful vegetarian main course served over steamed rice or with Indian flatbreads like roti or naan. Leftovers will keep refrigerated for 3-4 days. Makes 4 servings. Total time: 45 minutes.
Similar Recipes
- Sambhar
- Avial
- Bisi Bele Bath
- Kundapur Chicken Curry
- Mixed Vegetable Kootu
Nutrient Benefits
Not only is this dish incredibly tasty, but it’s also packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and nutrients. Radishes are an excellent source of vitamin C, while the lentils provide filling protein and fiber.
Mullangi Kootu
Ingredients
- 100 gms White Radish (chopped)
- 50 gms Moong Dal
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric Powder
- 1/4 tsp Asafoetida Powder
- 1/2 tsp Mustard Seeds
- 1/2 tsp Urad Dal
- 1/2 tsp Coconut Oil
- Coriander Leaves (handful, chopped)
- 3/4 tsp Green Chillies (finely chopped)
- Curry Leaves (few)
- Salt as per taste
Instructions
- Dry roast the moong dal for 30 seconds.
- Pressure cook until 1 or 2 whistles or until cooked, adding enough water.
- Using the back of a ladle, mash well and keep aside.
- Pressure cook the radish with turmeric powder and salt.
- Heat oil in a pan.
- Fry the mustard seeds and urad dal for 20 seconds.
- Add green chillies, asafoetida powder, curry leaves and stir-fry for 30 to 45 seconds.
- Add the cooked radish and dal.
- Stir well to mix.
- Bring to a boil and remove from flame.
- Garnish with coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mullangi Kootu?
Mullangi Kootu is a popular South Indian vegetarian curry made with white radish (mullangi), lentils like moong dal, tempered spices, coconut and tangy seasonings. It has a delightfully earthy, slightly sweet flavor.
Is this dish gluten-free and vegan?
Yes, Mullangi Kootu is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten ingredients. It’s also completely vegan, made without any dairy or meat products.
Can I use other lentils besides moong dal?
Sure, you can substitute toor dal (split pigeon peas) or masoor dal (red lentils) instead of moong dal. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for the lentils to become soft.
How spicy is this curry?
The level of heat is quite mild, coming mainly from the green chilies. You can increase or decrease the amount of chilies to suit your taste preferences.
Can I add vegetables other than radish?
Surely. Carrots, potatoes, yams and drumstick veggies would all work nicely in this versatile curry. Feel free to toss in your favorites.
