Mulakushyam Recipe – A Mixed Vegetable Lentil Curry
Flavorful and hearty, this Palakkad-style mixed vegetable lentil curry is a true taste of Kerala.
Introduction:
Mulakushyam is a popular and comforting dish from the Palakkad region of Kerala, known for its rich flavors and healthful ingredients. This mixed vegetable lentil curry is a delicious blend of Yellow Moong Dal (split), assorted vegetables, and a touch of coconut oil—making it both nutritious and flavorful. It’s a wonderful side dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or traditional Kerala meals like Elai Vadam and Pisarna Manga. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome addition to a meal or a quick dinner option, this recipe will satisfy your hunger while filling you with warmth and comfort.
Recipe Summary
- Cuisine: Kerala
- Course: Side Dish
- Diet: High-Protein Vegetarian
- Preparation Time: 18 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Serves: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yellow Moong Dal (Split) | 1/2 cup |
| Chayote | 1, peeled and diced |
| Potato (Aloo) | 1, peeled and diced |
| Carrot (Gajjar) | 2, peeled and diced |
| Green Peas (Matar) | 1/4 cup |
| Green Chillies | 2, slit |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Curry Leaves | A sprig |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Coconut Oil | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 kcal |
| Protein | ~6 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~18 g |
| Fiber | ~4 g |
| Fat | ~5 g |
| Sodium | ~300 mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by washing the Yellow Moong Dal thoroughly. Peel and dice the vegetables—Chayote, Potato, and Carrot. Slit the green chillies and set aside all the ingredients. -
Cooking the Mulakushyam:
You can prepare the dish using either a pressure cooker or a saucepan. The pressure cooker method is quicker, while the saucepan method allows you to cook everything at a gentler pace.-
Pressure Cooker Method:
- Place the washed Yellow Moong Dal, diced vegetables, and slit green chillies into the pressure cooker.
- Add 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, salt to taste, and about 2 cups of water.
- Close the lid of the pressure cooker, place the weight on, and cook for two whistles on high flame.
- Once the second whistle goes off, reduce the heat to low and let the curry simmer for a couple of minutes. Turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally.
-
Saucepan Method:
- In a large saucepan, add the washed dal, diced vegetables, and green chillies.
- Pour in 2 cups of water and bring it to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium, cover, and let it simmer until the dal and vegetables are tender and fully cooked (around 20-25 minutes).
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-
Final Touches:
Once the pressure has released from the cooker or the vegetables have cooked in the saucepan, open the lid and add a sprig of fresh curry leaves, 1 tablespoon of coconut oil, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper powder. -
Stir and Boil:
Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Allow the mixture to come to a brisk boil to blend the flavors together. -
Serve:
Once the curry reaches a nice boiling consistency, turn off the heat and transfer the Mulakushyam into a serving bowl.
Serving Suggestions
Mulakushyam is best served hot with Steamed Rice, Elai Vadam, and Pisarna Manga (Kerala-style pickles) for a complete and satisfying meal. This dish also works wonderfully as a side for a larger Kerala-style feast, complementing other curries and rice preparations.
Pro Tips
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash the cooked vegetables slightly to create a creamier texture.
- For added richness, you can drizzle a little extra coconut oil just before serving.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Simply reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Mulakushyam is a wholesome and balanced meal that’s as comforting as it is nutritious. With its high-protein content from the moong dal, fiber from the mixed vegetables, and the aromatic addition of curry leaves and coconut oil, it’s a delightful way to enjoy a traditional Kerala dish. Try this simple yet flavorful recipe, and indulge in the authentic taste of Palakkad cuisine right in your own home!
