Tamil Nadu Beetroot Kootu: Healthy & Flavorful South Indian Side Dish
Tamil Nadu Style Beetroot Kootu Recipe
Tamil Nadu Style Beetroot Kootu is a traditional South Indian dish that combines the earthiness of beetroot with the mild, comforting flavor of yellow moong dal. This easy-to-make vegetarian recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a nutritious side dish alongside steamed rice. With its rich combination of flavors, from the earthy sweetness of beetroot to the spiced tempering, it is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beetroot | 1, cut into small dices |
| Yellow Moong Dal (Split) | 1 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| To be Ground to Paste | |
| Fresh Coconut | 1/4 cup, grated |
| Dry Red Chillies | 2 |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
| For Seasoning | |
| Coconut Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry Leaves | 1 sprig |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Instructions
-
Pressure Cook the Beetroot and Moong Dal:
Begin by pressure cooking the diced beetroot and yellow moong dal with water for about 4 whistles. Once the pressure cooker cools down, release the pressure naturally and set the cooked mixture aside. -
-
Grind the Paste:
While the beetroot and dal are cooking, prepare the ground masala. Using a grinder, combine the grated fresh coconut, dry red chillies, cumin seeds, and curry leaves. Grind them into a coarse paste. -
Combine with the Cooked Mixture:
Once the beetroot and moong dal are cooked, add the ground paste into the mixture and stir to combine. Let the flavors meld together for a few minutes over low heat. -
Prepare the Tempering:
In a small skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and urad dal. Once the mustard seeds begin to crackle, add a pinch of hing (asafoetida) and curry leaves to the pan. Stir-fry for a few seconds until fragrant. -
Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat and pour the tempering over the cooked beetroot kootu. Give it a final mix to combine the seasoning with the kootu. -
Serve:
Serve the Tamil Nadu Style Beetroot Kootu hot, paired with steamed rice and a side of Paruppu Rasam (South Indian Dal Rasam) for a complete meal.
Allergen Information
- Contains Coconut: This recipe uses fresh grated coconut both in the ground paste and the tempering, which may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to coconut.
- Contains Mustard Seeds: Mustard is a common allergen and should be avoided by those with mustard allergies.
- Contains Urad Dal: Urad dal is a legume and may cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to pulses.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: This dish is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: There are no gluten-containing ingredients in this recipe, making it an excellent choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Dairy-Free: The recipe is free from dairy, making it suitable for those following a dairy-free or vegan diet.
Tips and Advice
- Cooking Variations: You can adjust the consistency of the kootu by adding more or less water depending on your preference. For a thicker kootu, use less water during the pressure cooking stage.
- Adding Protein: While moong dal provides a mild source of protein, you can also add a handful of cooked toor dal for a heartier dish.
- Spiciness Level: Adjust the number of dry red chillies based on your spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder kootu, you can reduce the chillies or even skip them altogether.
- Storage: Leftover beetroot kootu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
Conclusion
The Tamil Nadu Style Beetroot Kootu is a perfect blend of flavors, texture, and nutrition. This dish is quick, easy, and versatile enough to be enjoyed as a light meal or as a side dish to complement a more elaborate spread. With its healthy ingredients and rich taste, it’s a great addition to any South Indian-inspired meal. Try it out today and bring the authentic taste of Tamil Nadu into your home!
