Mooli Bhurji Recipe – North Indian Stir-Fried Radish Delight
Mooli Bhurji, a beloved Punjabi-style stir-fry, is a winter specialty made using the humble radish (mooli) and its fresh, nutrient-rich green leaves. This vegetarian recipe is both flavorful and wholesome, seasoned with traditional North Indian spices. Pair it with hot phulkas and dal for a comforting and nutritious meal.
Recipe Overview
| Cuisine | North Indian Recipes |
|---|---|
| Course | Dinner |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delightful stir-fry:
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mooli/Mullangi (Radish) | 1 cup, chopped |
| Mooli Ke Patte (Radish Greens) | 3 cups, chopped |
| Green Chillies | 4 |
| Mustard Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Ajwain (Carom Seeds) | 3/4 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Amchur (Dry Mango Powder) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 65 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 7 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Vitamin C | 40% of Daily Value |
| Iron | 6% of Daily Value |
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare Mooli Bhurji:
-
Prepare the Ingredients
- Begin by thoroughly washing the radish and its leaves under running water.
- Peel and finely chop the radish. Chop the fresh radish greens as well and set them aside.
-
Heat the Oil and Temper the Spices
- Heat mustard oil in a wok or deep pan over medium heat. Allow the oil to reach its smoking point and then reduce the flame.
- Add mustard seeds to the hot oil. Once they splutter, add the ajwain (carom seeds), asafoetida, and turmeric powder.
-
Add Green Chillies
- Toss in the green chillies, slit lengthwise or chopped, and sauté for a few seconds until their aroma is released.
-
Cook the Radish and Greens
- Add the chopped radish and radish greens to the wok. Sprinkle a generous pinch of salt to help the vegetables release moisture.
- Sauté the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
-
Cook Until Moisture Evaporates
- As the vegetables cook, you’ll notice that the radish releases water. Continue cooking until the water evaporates, and the vegetables are tender yet not mushy.
-
Finish with Amchur
- Once the radish and greens are cooked, sprinkle amchur powder over the stir-fry. Mix well to incorporate the tangy flavor.
- Turn off the heat and let the bhurji rest for a minute.
-
Serve Hot
- Transfer the Mooli Bhurji to a serving bowl. Enjoy it with freshly made Phulkas or Panchmel Dal for a complete and satisfying meal.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Mooli Bhurji
- Balance the flavors: Adjust the amount of amchur powder based on your preference for tanginess.
- Fresh greens: Ensure the radish greens are fresh and vibrant for the best taste and nutritional benefits.
- Oil selection: Mustard oil adds authentic North Indian flavor, but you can substitute it with vegetable oil if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Mooli Bhurji pairs wonderfully with:
- Phulkas: Soft Indian flatbreads.
- Panchmel Dal: A traditional Rajasthani dal made with five types of lentils.
- Plain Rice or Jeera Rice: For a heartier meal, serve with steamed rice.
This Mooli Bhurji recipe brings together the earthy flavors of radish, the sharpness of mustard oil, and the warmth of Indian spices to create a comforting winter dish that’s not only nutritious but also irresistibly delicious. Prepare it for dinner, and let it become a staple in your winter meal rotation!
