Mint Vegetables Moilee (Mixed Vegetables in Minty Coconut Milk)
A delightful twist on the traditional Kerala Moilee, Mint Vegetables Moilee is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines a medley of vegetables with the refreshing essence of mint and the richness of coconut milk. This dish is a perfect vegetarian option for lunch, bringing together the mild, soothing flavors of coconut milk and the coolness of fresh mint leaves. Ideal for pairing with Appams, Idiyappams, or steamed rice, this recipe offers a taste of South India’s coastal delicacies.
Ingredients
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mixed vegetables (potatoes, carrot, beans, peas), cut into cubes | 1-1/2 cups |
| Onion, thinly sliced | 1 |
| Tomato, roughly chopped | 1 |
| Green chilli, slit | 1 |
| Ginger, thinly sliced | 1-inch piece |
| Garlic, sliced | 2 cloves |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Coconut milk (thin) | 1 cup |
| Coconut milk (thick) | 1 cup |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Coconut oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Mint leaves (Pudina), made into paste | 2 sprigs |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Vitamin C | 15% of Daily Value |
| Calcium | 4% of Daily Value |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions
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Prepare Coconut Milk: Start by scraping fresh coconut and extracting both thin and thick coconut milk. Keep these aside for use in later steps.
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Heat the Oil: In a large wok or kadhai, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and allow them to splutter, releasing their aromatic oils into the dish.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Add the curry leaves and sliced onions to the wok. Sauté them until the onions turn translucent, enhancing their sweetness.
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Cook Ginger and Garlic: Add the thinly sliced ginger and garlic. Sauté them until their raw smell disappears, and they become fragrant, contributing depth of flavor to the dish.
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Sauté Vegetables: Add the cubed mixed vegetables to the wok. Stir in the black pepper powder and a pinch of turmeric (optional, for color and flavor). Sauté the vegetables for about a minute to coat them with the spices.
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Add Thin Coconut Milk: Pour in the thin coconut milk and cover the wok with a lid. Allow the vegetables to cook for 5-6 minutes, until they become tender and absorb the coconut milk’s mild sweetness.
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Incorporate Tomatoes: Once the vegetables have softened, add the chopped tomatoes and cook for another minute to allow them to break down and integrate into the sauce.
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Add Thick Coconut Milk and Mint: Now, add the thick coconut milk and the fresh mint paste to the wok. Stir gently to combine, letting the mint infuse its cool, refreshing flavor into the dish. Cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring the mixture does not come to a boil to prevent curdling of the coconut milk.
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Final Seasoning: Turn off the heat and season the dish with salt to taste. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice for a tangy balance to the coconut’s richness.
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Serve: Serve your Mint Vegetables Moilee hot, ideally paired with soft Appams, delicate Idiyappams, or fluffy steamed rice for a complete meal.
Chef’s Tips:
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on availability and season. Cauliflower, peas, and bell peppers also work well in this dish.
- Mint Paste: For an extra burst of minty freshness, blend the mint leaves with a little water to make a smooth paste, and add it toward the end to retain the vibrant flavor.
- Coconut Milk Quality: Use good-quality fresh coconut milk, either store-bought or homemade, to ensure the dish has a rich, creamy texture.
Pairing Suggestions:
- Appams: The soft, lacy texture of Appams soaks up the curry perfectly, making it an ideal accompaniment.
- Idiyappams: Steamed rice noodles, or Idiyappams, are another traditional side that complements the creamy coconut curry beautifully.
- Steamed Rice: For a simple but satisfying meal, serve with fluffy steamed rice, which balances out the richness of the dish.
Mint Vegetables Moilee is a fantastic dish that beautifully marries the earthy flavors of mixed vegetables with the aromatic, mint-infused coconut milk. The mild spices allow the fresh mint and coconut to shine, making it a refreshing yet hearty dish perfect for a nutritious lunch. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or simply craving something different, this Kerala-inspired recipe will transport you to the serene coastal kitchens of South India with every bite.
