Mulakootal Recipe (Vegetables in Coconut Gravy)
Mulakootal, a traditional South Indian dish, beautifully combines the nutty flavors of yellow moong dal with the rich creaminess of coconut, all while infusing the dish with the vibrant taste of mixed vegetables. This comforting vegetarian recipe is perfect for lunch and pairs exquisitely with rice or roti, making it an ideal addition to any meal. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients, Mulakootal not only nourishes the body but also delights the palate.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yellow Moong Dal (Split) | 1/2 cup |
| Mixed Vegetables (e.g., radish, turnips) | 2 cups |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 1/2 cup |
| Dry Red Chillies | 3 pieces |
| Sunflower Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds | 1/4 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 29 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
Preparation Time
| Time Component | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 25 minutes |
| Cooking | 45 minutes |
| Total | 70 minutes |
Instructions
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Prepare the Coconut Paste: Begin your Mulakootal journey by taking a blender and adding the freshly grated coconut along with the dry red chilies. Grind these ingredients together until they form a coarse paste, capturing the essence of the coconut and the warmth of the chilies.
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Cook the Lentils: In a pressure cooker, wash the yellow moong dal thoroughly. Add enough water and pressure cook until the lentils are soft and well-cooked. This will provide a creamy base for your dish.
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Cook the Vegetables: In a Kadai (wok), add the mixed vegetables along with a pinch of salt and cook them completely until they are tender. The choice of vegetables can vary based on availability, but radishes and turnips lend a lovely flavor to the dish.
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Combine Lentils and Vegetables: Once the vegetables are cooked, gently fold in the cooked dal. Stir to combine and allow the mixture to cook together for about 5 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld beautifully.
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Incorporate the Coconut Paste: Now, add the prepared coconut paste into the mixture. Stir well and continue to cook on low flame for an additional 5 minutes. If you find the consistency is too thick, feel free to add a splash of water to achieve your desired texture.
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Prepare the Tempering: In a small pan, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and wait for them to splutter, releasing their aromatic essence into the oil. Following this, add the urad dal and curry leaves, allowing them to cook until the dal is golden and fragrant.
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Finish the Dish: Pour this flavorful tempering over the Mulakootal, allowing the aromas to infuse the dish. Give it a gentle stir and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt as necessary.
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Serve: Your Mulakootal is now ready to be savored! Serve it hot alongside steamed rice or warm roti, and for a complete meal, accompany it with a side of curd (yogurt) to enhance the flavors.
This dish not only provides a delicious meal but also brings a taste of South Indian heritage right to your table. Enjoy every bite of this wholesome and nutritious Mulakootal!
