Moolangi Tovve Recipe – Radish Curry
Moolangi Tovve, also known as Radish Curry, is a quintessential dish from South India, particularly beloved in Karnataka. This simple and light dal, made with the perfect combination of lentils and vegetables, is a comforting dish that is as nutritious as it is flavorful. In Kannada, Tovve refers to a basic, humble dal that is easy to digest and gentle on the stomach. The addition of radish enhances the dish’s natural flavors while lending a mild heat, making it a delightful dish to enjoy alongside rice. This recipe is vegetarian and offers a wholesome, hearty meal ideal for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients for Moolangi Tovve (Radish Curry)
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mooli / Mullangi (Radish) | 3, peeled and sliced (5mm thick) |
| Yellow Moong Dal (Split) | 1/2 cup |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Green Chillies | 2, finely chopped |
| Ginger | 1 teaspoon, grated |
| Fresh Coconut | 2 tablespoons, freshly grated |
| For Tempering | |
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai / Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Dry Red Chillies | 2 |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1 pinch |
| For Garnishing | |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves | Few sprigs, finely chopped |
| Lemon Wedges | 2, for serving |
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Servings:
4-6 servings
Instructions
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Rinse the Moong Dal: Begin by washing the yellow moong dal a couple of times with water to remove any impurities. Once rinsed, add it to a pressure cooker along with the radish slices, turmeric powder, green chillies, and 1.5 cups of water.
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Pressure Cook: Close the pressure cooker lid and cook the dal mixture for 3 whistles. Once done, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. Afterward, open the lid and set the cooked dal aside.
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Prepare the Tempering: In a separate pan, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and wait for them to pop. Once they start to pop, add the dry red chillies and grated ginger. Let the red chillies crisp up and the ginger release its aroma.
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Combine and Cook: Carefully pour the cooked dal mixture into the pan with the tempering. Add salt to taste and an additional 1.5 cups of water. Allow the mixture to come to a brisk boil. Let it cook for a few more minutes until the dal thickens slightly.
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Finish the Dish: Once the dal has thickened to your desired consistency, add the freshly grated coconut and finely chopped coriander leaves. Stir to combine, and let the flavors meld together for a minute or two.
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Serve: Turn off the heat and transfer the Moolangi Tovve to a serving bowl. Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh coriander leaves and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Serving Suggestions
Moolangi Tovve pairs wonderfully with Steamed Rice and Elai Vadam (crispy rice crackers), making for a complete and comforting South Indian meal. Enjoy the light, flavorful radish curry that is rich in protein and essential nutrients from the moong dal.
This recipe is easy to prepare and suitable for a quick yet nourishing lunch or dinner. The radish adds a delicate sharpness to the dal, while the tempering brings a delightful warmth and depth of flavor. Whether you’re new to South Indian cuisine or a long-time fan, Moolangi Tovve is a must-try for anyone looking for a healthy, satisfying meal.
