Mulligatawny soup is a delightful fusion of flavors originating from Indian cuisine, known for its unique blend of spices, vegetables, and lentils. As you dive into this hearty dish, you’ll find a comforting warmth that wraps around you, making it perfect for any occasion. This soup isn’t just satisfying; it’s a wonderful way to explore diverse culinary traditions with every spoonful. So roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and get ready to create something truly special.
Why We Love This Mulligatawny Soup Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore this Mulligatawny soup recipe. First and foremost, it’s packed with nutrition thanks to the use of red lentils, which are a great protein source and rich in fiber. The blend of vegetables—onion, carrots, and celery—adds a wonderful texture and essential vitamins, while the coconut milk introduces a creamy richness without any dairy. Plus, the hint of curry powder brings a vibrant flavor that is both warming and invigorating. Not only is it healthy, but this soup is also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just enjoy a cozy meal at home, this Mulligatawny soup will not disappoint.
Ingredients about Mulligatawny Soup
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 apple, peeled and diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
How to Make Mulligatawny Soup Directions
Creating Mulligatawny soup is a straightforward and enjoyable process. To start, heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until they become tender and fragrant. You’ll notice the delightful aroma filling your kitchen, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Next, stir in the minced garlic and curry powder. Let them cook together for an additional minute, allowing the flavorful spices to bloom. This step is crucial for developing the soup’s rich flavor profile. After that, add the rinsed red lentils and vegetable broth into the pot. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to simmer and allow the soup to cook for about 20 minutes. During this time, the lentils will soften, and their earthy flavor will meld with the other ingredients.
Once your lentils are tender, it’s time to stir in the creamy coconut milk and diced apple. This addition will elevate the soup, offering a hint of sweetness that perfectly balances the spices. Season your soup with salt and pepper to taste, and let it cook for another 5 to 10 minutes. As you simmer, take a moment to appreciate the enticing aroma.
When your Mulligatawny soup is ready, it’s time to serve it. Use a ladle to portion it out into bowls, making sure to scoop in a good mix of lentils and vegetables. If you’d like, garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a pop of color and an added layer of flavor. This dish is delightful on its own, but you’ll find that it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or naan, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
How to Serve Mulligatawny Soup
Mulligatawny soup is not just nourishing; it’s also a feast for the senses. To elevate your serving experience, consider how you plate this exquisite soup. Serve it in deep bowls to showcase its vibrant colors, and don’t shy away from garnishing. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds freshness with every bite.
Accompany your soup with warm crusty bread, which is perfect for dipping, or savor it alongside soft naan for an authentic touch. The contrasting textures of the soup and bread create a delightful experience that you and your guests will love. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, presenting your Mulligatawny soup this way will impress everyone at the table.
Expert Tips: Mulligatawny Soup
To make your Mulligatawny soup truly stand out, here are some expert tips that you can easily incorporate. First, feel free to adjust the spice level. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced chili peppers to your sautéed vegetables. This will give your soup an added kick that many will appreciate.
For added creaminess and flavor, experiment with different types of apples. A tart variety like Granny Smith balances the spices beautifully, while a sweeter option can provide a different experience altogether. If you want more protein, adding cooked chicken or chickpeas can turn this soup into a heartier meal.
Don’t hesitate to customize the vegetable intake based on what’s available in your fridge. Adding ingredients like spinach, kale, or bell peppers can give additional nutrition and variety to your dish. Lastly, always taste your soup as you go. This ensures you achieve the perfect blend of flavors tailored to your liking.
How to Store Mulligatawny Soup
If you find yourself with leftover Mulligatawny soup, you’ll be pleased to know that it stores quite well! Allow your soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy more delicious bowls, simply reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing your Mulligatawny soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion. Label each container with the date and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready for another taste, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator, and reheat as mentioned above. Freezing ensures that you can enjoy this vibrant soup even on busy days when you want a quick, satisfying meal.
Variation of Mulligatawny Soup
The beauty of Mulligatawny soup lies in its versatility, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients to create your own twist. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider swapping out the coconut milk with almond milk or vegetable stock. This will reduce the richness while still retaining a delicious flavor profile.
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, tweake the texture by adding toasted nuts like cashews or almonds just before serving. This addition not only provides a satisfying bite but also elevates the nutritional content. If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of the cooked lentils and vegetables using an immersion blender before serving. This will create a creamy texture while still leaving some whole pieces for interest.
Vegetable lovers can expand the ingredient list by introducing additional seasonal produce such as butternut squash, zucchini, or sweet potatoes. Each addition can bring a new flavor dimension and nutritional benefits to the mix. If you want to incorporate a touch of international flair, consider adding spices like ginger or turmeric, both of which pair beautifully with the existing flavors.
FAQ
What is Mulligatawny soup?
Mulligatawny soup is a traditional Indian-inspired dish featuring a blend of spices, vegetables, lentils, and sometimes meat, simmered in a creamy base like coconut milk.
How do you make Mulligatawny soup vegetarian?
This recipe is vegetarian as it uses vegetable broth and coconut milk. By adding lentils and a variety of vegetables, you can create a hearty and nutritious dish.
Can I make Mulligatawny soup spicy?
Yes! You can easily adjust the spice level by adding cayenne pepper, diced chili peppers, or increasing the amount of curry powder.
How long does Mulligatawny soup last in the fridge?
Mulligatawny soup will last up to three days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze Mulligatawny soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen for up to three months. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers, label with the date, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.
Mulligatawny Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 whole onion, chopped
- 2 whole carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 whole apple, peeled and diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until tender and fragrant.
- Stir in the minced garlic and curry powder. Cook for an additional minute.
- Add the rinsed red lentils and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to simmer and cook for about 20 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Stir in coconut milk and diced apple, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for another 5 to 10 minutes.
Serving
- Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring a good mix of lentils and vegetables.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve with crusty bread or naan.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!