South Indian Kosambari Recipe with Raw Mango, Cucumber, Carrot, & Beetroot
South Indian Kosambari is a refreshing and vibrant salad that combines the natural sweetness of vegetables with the tanginess of raw mango. This colorful dish is a staple in South Indian cuisine, especially during festivals like Diwali and Bali Padyami. It offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making it the perfect side dish to elevate your meal. Packed with the goodness of fresh vegetables, protein from paneer, and the nutty aroma of tempering spices, this Kosambari Salad is both nutritious and irresistibly delicious.
Recipe Details
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | South Indian Recipes |
| Course | Side Dish |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 4-6 servings |
Ingredients
Fresh Salad Mix:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chana Dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1/4 cup, soaked in water for 3 hours |
| Carrot (Gajjar) | 1/4 cup, grated |
| Beetroot | 1/4 cup, grated |
| Cucumber | 1/2 cup, chopped |
| Mango (Raw) | 1/2 cup, grated |
| Green Chillies | 2, finely chopped |
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 1/4 cup, small cubes, toasted until golden |
| Fresh Coconut | 1 tablespoon, grated |
| Salt | To taste |
Tempering:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/2 tablespoon |
| White Urad Dal (Split) | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
| Curry Leaves | 10-15 leaves |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 115 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Fats | 4 g |
| Vitamin A | 35% DV |
| Vitamin C | 40% DV |
| Calcium | 8% DV |
| Iron | 7% DV |
DV = Daily Value based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Values may vary.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chana Dal
- Wash the chana dal thoroughly and soak it in water for 2-3 hours. This step ensures the dal softens, making it easier to blend.
- After soaking, drain the water completely and grind the chana dal into a coarse paste using a mixer. Avoid over-grinding to retain a slightly grainy texture for the salad.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the coarsely ground chana dal, grated carrot, beetroot, chopped cucumber, grated raw mango, finely chopped green chilies, and toasted paneer cubes.
- Gently toss the mixture to distribute the ingredients evenly. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Tempering
- Heat oil in a small tadka (tempering) pan over medium heat.
- Add mustard seeds to the hot oil and allow them to splutter. Then, add curry leaves, asafoetida, and white urad dal. Stir continuously until the urad dal turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma.
- Remove the tempering from heat and immediately pour it over the prepared Kosambari mixture.
Step 4: Season and Garnish
- Add salt to the salad, adjusting the quantity to taste. Sprinkle freshly grated coconut over the top for a touch of sweetness and richness.
- Toss the salad gently to mix the seasoning and tempering evenly.
Step 5: Serve the Kosambari
- Serve the South Indian Kosambari fresh alongside warm Moong Dal Rasam, steamed rice, and a flavorful Capsicum Masala Poriyal for a wholesome South Indian meal.
- This salad is best enjoyed immediately to savor its fresh flavors and crunchy textures.
Pro Tips for Perfect Kosambari
- Soaking Chana Dal: Ensure the chana dal is well-soaked to achieve the desired texture. Undersoaked dal can result in a dry or hard salad.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality vegetables and raw mango for the best flavor and crunch.
- Paneer Toasting: Toasting paneer lightly enhances its flavor and adds a chewy texture to the salad.
- Serving Time: Kosambari tastes best when freshly prepared. If prepping in advance, add salt and tempering just before serving to retain the crispness of the vegetables.
This South Indian Kosambari Recipe is a celebration of flavors and textures that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a refreshing salad, this dish will surely become a favorite at your table. Enjoy this wholesome side dish that showcases the beauty of South Indian cuisine!
