Mulakootal Recipe (Vegetables in Coconut Gravy)
Mulakootal is a traditional South Indian dish, especially beloved in the Palakkad Brahmin community, that combines lentils, a variety of vegetables, and a coconut-based gravy. The dish is a perfect example of simple, wholesome South Indian comfort food. This mildly spiced curry is a versatile dish, pairing beautifully with steamed rice and ghee. It is also similar to the Tamil Nadu dish “Kootu,” although Mulakootal often incorporates a unique combination of vegetables, which can vary according to regional preferences and available produce.
While the basic recipe calls for lentils, coconut, and a selection of vegetables, you can tailor it according to the type of vegetables you prefer or have on hand. Some variations of Mulakootal include Keerai Mulakootal made with spinach, Pumpkin Mulakootal, or a mixed vegetable version like the one we’re preparing here today, which uses a blend of radish, turnips, and brinjal (eggplant).
Whether served for a weekday lunch or a festive occasion, Mulakootal brings the flavors of Kerala and Tamil Nadu together, offering a nutritious and flavorful meal that can easily become a household favorite.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yellow Moong Dal (Split) | 1/2 cup (can substitute with Toor Dal) |
| Mixed Vegetables (e.g., radish, turnips, brinjal) | 2 cups |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh Coconut (grated) | 1/2 cup |
| Dry Red Chillies | 3 |
| For Tempering | |
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Dry Red Chillies | 2 |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Coconut Paste:
In a blender, combine the fresh grated coconut and dried red chilies. Grind them together into a coarse paste. This paste will add a rich and aromatic base to your gravy. -
Cook the Lentils:
Wash the Yellow Moong Dal (or Toor Dal, if you’re substituting) thoroughly and cook it in a pressure cooker with 1 cup of water. Cook until the dal is completely soft and well-cooked. Set aside. -
Cook the Vegetables:
In a Kadai or wide pan, heat a little oil and add the mixed vegetables (radish, turnips, brinjal, or your choice of vegetables). Cook the vegetables over medium heat until they are tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. This step ensures that the vegetables absorb the spices and soften before being combined with the dal. -
Combine the Dal and Vegetables:
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the cooked dal to the pan with the vegetables. Stir well to combine. Cook together for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. -
Add the Coconut Paste:
Add the prepared coconut and red chili paste to the mixture of dal and vegetables. Stir the mixture well and let it simmer on low heat for an additional 5 minutes. If the consistency is too thick, you can add a little water to adjust the texture to your liking. -
Tempering the Mulakootal:
In a small frying pan, heat oil for tempering. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Once they begin to crackle, add the white urad dal, curry leaves, and the dry red chilies. Fry for a minute until the urad dal turns golden brown and the curry leaves become fragrant. -
Final Touch:
Pour the tempering over the cooked Mulakootal and give everything a gentle mix. This will infuse the curry with a delicious, aromatic flavor from the tempering ingredients. -
Serve:
Serve your hot Mulakootal with steamed rice or roti. It is best enjoyed with a dollop of ghee and some fresh curd on the side for an authentic South Indian meal.
Tips for the Perfect Mulakootal:
- Vegetables: You can use a variety of vegetables such as carrots, beans, drumstick, or even potatoes based on your preference.
- Consistency: Adjust the consistency of the curry by adding more water if it becomes too thick. Mulakootal can be served as a semi-thick curry.
- Spices: If you like a spicier version, increase the number of dried red chilies or add a pinch of chili powder along with the turmeric.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
Mulakootal is a wonderfully healthy and balanced dish. Packed with protein from lentils, vitamins from the vegetables, and healthy fats from the coconut, it’s a meal that nourishes both the body and soul. Whether you’re preparing it for a family lunch or serving it at a gathering, Mulakootal is sure to delight your guests with its fragrant aroma and rich flavors.
