Mulakootal (Vegetables in Coconut Gravy) Recipe
A Traditional South Indian Dish That Combines Mixed Vegetables with a Rich Coconut Gravy
Mulakootal is a beloved South Indian dish that features an aromatic blend of vegetables cooked in a creamy coconut gravy, accompanied by a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and red chilies for that signature flavor boost. This dish is typically enjoyed with hot steamed rice, making it the perfect lunch for any occasion. It’s nutritious, comforting, and incredibly flavorful.
Ingredients
(Serves: 4 | Preparation Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mixed vegetables (carrot, drumstick, beans, lauki, potato, cauliflower, etc.) | 2 cups |
| Arhar dal (Split Toor Dal) | 1/2 cup |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh coconut (grated) | 1/2 cup |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 2 tablespoons |
| Mustard seeds | 2 teaspoons |
| Dry red chilies | 3 whole |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Coconut oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds (for tempering) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dry red chilies (for tempering) | 2 whole |
| Curry leaves | A handful |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Vegetables:
Begin by washing, peeling, and dicing the vegetables. You can use a mix of your favorite vegetables. Common choices include carrots, lauki (bottle gourd), drumsticks, beans, potatoes, white pumpkin, and cauliflower. The more variety, the more flavor you’ll get in your Mulakootal. -
Cook the Vegetables:
In a large pot or a pressure cooker, add the diced vegetables along with a pinch of salt, turmeric powder, and a little water. Cook until the vegetables are tender. If using a pressure cooker, cook for about 3-4 whistles. -
Cook the Toor Dal:
In another pressure cooker, add the toor dal (arhar dal) and cook it until it becomes soft and mushy. Set aside. -
Make the Coconut Paste:
For the coconut paste, dry roast the white urad dal, mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and dry red chilies in a pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until they become fragrant and slightly browned. Take care not to burn the spices. Once roasted, combine the roasted spices with the grated fresh coconut and grind everything together into a smooth paste. Add a little water to achieve a paste-like consistency if needed. -
Combine the Dal, Coconut Paste, and Vegetables:
Add the cooked toor dal and the coconut paste to the boiled vegetables. Stir everything well and let it simmer for 5 minutes. This will allow the flavors to blend and the raw smell of the coconut to disappear. -
Prepare the Tempering (Tadka):
In a small pan, heat the coconut oil. Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then, add the dry red chilies and curry leaves, and sauté for about 2 minutes until the spices release their aroma. -
Final Touch:
Pour the tempering over the vegetable and coconut mixture and stir gently to incorporate the flavors. Simmer for another 2 minutes. -
Serve:
Your Mulakootal is now ready to be served! Pair this delicious dish with hot steamed rice for a perfect South Indian lunch experience. The richness of the coconut gravy combined with the soft vegetables and the flavorful tempering makes for an unforgettable meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 200 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Potassium | 500mg |
| Vitamin A | 100% DV |
| Vitamin C | 30% DV |
| Calcium | 6% DV |
Tips for Making the Best Mulakootal
- Use Fresh Coconut: The flavor of fresh coconut is irreplaceable. If you can, avoid using desiccated coconut, as it will alter the richness and texture of the dish.
- Roast the Spices Well: Roasting the spices before grinding them with the coconut enhances their aroma and flavor. Be cautious not to burn them, as burnt spices can give the curry a bitter taste.
- Adjust the Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on what’s available. Mulakootal is a versatile dish that can include various seasonal vegetables.
- Coconut Oil for Authentic Flavor: Coconut oil is a key ingredient in this dish, as it imparts a distinct South Indian flavor. Don’t skip this if you’re looking for an authentic taste.
Enjoy your Mulakootal with a side of steaming hot rice for a traditional South Indian meal that’s comforting, healthy, and bursting with flavors!
