Mulligatawny soup is one of those dishes that instantly brings comfort, warmth, and depth of flavor to the table. The name itself has a fascinating history-derived from the Tamil words "milagu-tannir," meaning "pepper water." Originally, it was a spicy, peppery broth served with rice, but over time, it has evolved into a rich, hearty soup enjoyed in various forms across the globe. This version is vegetarian, a nod to the growing demand for plant-based meals that still pack a punch when it comes to flavor and nourishment.
If you’ve ever found yourself craving a bowl of something both satisfying and soul-soothing, vegetarian Mulligatawny might just be your new go-to. It’s a perfect combination of savory, tangy, and a little bit spicy-thanks to the blend of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric-balanced with the creaminess from coconut milk and the earthiness of lentils and vegetables. And it’s all simmered together in a beautiful harmony that makes each spoonful a delight.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based dishes to your weekly rotation, this soup is a winner. It’s easy to prepare, hearty enough to be a meal in itself, and offers layers of flavors that’ll make you come back for seconds (or thirds).
Vegetarian Mulligatawny Soup Recipe
Now, let’s dive into the recipe! This vegetarian Mulligatawny soup is packed with vibrant vegetables, a rich spice blend, and a creamy coconut milk base. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up.
Ingredients Needed
Before we get started, here’s everything you’ll need for this recipe. The ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures that truly elevate the soup.
- Lentils (yellow or red) – These provide the heartiness and protein in the soup. You can’t go wrong with either, but yellow lentils tend to break down more easily, giving the soup a creamier texture.
- Carrots – Adds a mild sweetness and some color to the soup.
- Potatoes – This acts as a base for the soup, giving it a smooth consistency when cooked down.
- Onions – A classic flavor base to give depth.
- Celery – For a subtle crunch and earthy flavor.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic brings a savory richness that’s essential in most soups.
- Ginger – For a zingy, aromatic kick that brings balance to the spices.
- Coconut Milk – This provides the creamy richness that ties all the other ingredients together.
- Vegetable Broth – A great way to infuse the soup with a savory flavor without any meat.
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Spices
- Curry Powder – The heart of Mulligatawny, giving it that unmistakable depth.
- Ground Turmeric – For warmth and a vibrant yellow color.
- Ground Cumin – Adds an earthy, slightly smoky flavor.
- Ground Coriander – Offers a citrusy, herbal flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon – A warm, sweet-spicy note.
- Ground Black Pepper – For a bit of heat, but not overpowering.
- Lemon Juice – To add a touch of acidity and balance the richness.
- Fresh Cilantro – For garnish, adding a pop of freshness.
Cooking Instructions
Ready to start cooking? This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps. Let’s break it down:
- Prep the Veggies: Start by dicing the carrots, potatoes, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic and grate or finely chop the ginger. Set everything aside.
- Sauté the Base: In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent, and the vegetables begin to release their fragrance. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the Spices: Now it’s time to bring in the spices! Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and black pepper. Allow the spices to toast in the oil for 2-3 minutes, which will bring out their full flavors and deepen the soup’s taste.
- Incorporate the Lentils and Broth: Add the lentils, potatoes, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine, then bring everything to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes or until the lentils and vegetables are tender and the soup has thickened.
- Blend (Optional): If you prefer a smooth consistency, you can use an immersion blender to purée the soup, or transfer it in batches to a regular blender. You want it to have a creamy, velvety texture, but don’t worry if some small chunks remain.
- Add Coconut Milk and Lemon Juice: Pour in the coconut milk, stirring until fully incorporated. Add the lemon juice to balance the richness of the coconut milk. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and enjoy the rich, spicy goodness!
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s take a moment to spotlight a few key ingredients in the soup and understand their science behind the flavors:
- Lentils: Lentils are not just an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, but they also absorb the flavors of the broth and spices, which makes them perfect for soups. Their texture breaks down nicely when cooked, contributing to the creamy consistency.
- Coconut Milk: Coconut milk’s fat content is what makes the soup so rich and creamy. The natural oils in coconut milk bring a subtle sweetness and richness, balancing the spices and preventing the soup from feeling overly acidic.
- Spices (Curry Powder, Turmeric, etc.): The beauty of the spice blend in Mulligatawny is the complexity of flavors. Curry powder brings a layered, savory heat, while turmeric provides an earthy bitterness. Cumin adds a warm, roasted note, and cinnamon’s sweet spice provides balance. Together, they create that characteristic depth and warmth that’s so comforting.
Expert Tips
If you want to take your Mulligatawny soup to the next level, here are some expert tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you like your soup spicier, feel free to add a bit of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the spice blend. Start with a pinch and taste as you go.
- Use Fresh Ginger: While ground ginger works in a pinch, fresh ginger gives the soup a much brighter, more aromatic flavor. If you don’t have fresh ginger, try to use a high-quality ground version.
- Make it Creamier: For extra creaminess, you can add a dollop of yogurt (dairy or non-dairy) just before serving.
- Use Ghee for Sautéing: For a richer, more traditional flavor, swap out the vegetable oil for ghee when sautéing the veggies. Ghee brings a nutty depth that can really enhance the flavor of the soup.
Recipe Variations
While this vegetarian Mulligatawny soup is perfect on its own, there are many ways you can customize it to suit your tastes:
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas. These additions will add color and texture.
- Switch the Lentils: If you’re not a fan of lentils, you can use split peas, chickpeas, or even quinoa as a protein base.
- Make it Vegan: This recipe is already vegan, but if you’re craving a little extra richness, add a splash of cashew cream or a few tablespoons of vegan butter.
- Add Protein: For an extra protein boost, consider adding tofu or tempeh. You can also add chickpeas or seitan for a meaty texture.
Final Words
Mulligatawny soup is one of those dishes that just gets better with time. It’s nourishing, comforting, and versatile, making it a great option for meal prep or to share with loved ones on a cold night. The combination of lentils, vegetables, and spices is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Indian-inspired dishes or new to them, this vegetarian Mulligatawny soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
FAQs
What Is Mulligatawny Soup?
Mulligatawny soup is a spiced, aromatic soup of Indian origin. Traditionally made with meat, the vegetarian version uses lentils, vegetables, and a blend of spices, making it a flavorful and hearty dish.
Can I Make Mulligatawny Soup Without Coconut Milk?
Yes, you can omit coconut milk and use vegetable broth or even dairy cream as an alternative. Coconut milk, however, adds a creamy texture and a mild sweetness that complements the spices.
What Are The Key Spices In A Vegetarian Mulligatawny Soup?
The key spices typically include cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and mustard seeds. These spices provide a warming, fragrant base to the soup.
Is Vegetarian Mulligatawny Soup Gluten-free?
Yes, vegetarian mulligatawny soup is generally gluten-free as it uses lentils, vegetables, and spices. However, if you use certain prepared broths or packaged ingredients, it’s important to check for gluten-containing additives.
What Vegetables Can I Use In A Vegetarian Mulligatawny Soup?
Common vegetables used include carrots, celery, onions, tomatoes, and potatoes. You can also add spinach, zucchini, or peas for variety and nutrition.
Can I Make Mulligatawny Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, mulligatawny soup can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors deepen and improve after sitting for a few hours or overnight. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What Can I Serve With Mulligatawny Soup?
Mulligatawny soup pairs well with naan bread, rice, or even a simple side of roasted vegetables. It can also be enjoyed with a fresh salad or a dollop of yogurt to balance the spices.
How Long Does It Take To Make Vegetarian Mulligatawny Soup?
The cooking time for vegetarian mulligatawny soup is typically around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on whether you’re cooking the lentils from scratch or using pre-cooked ones.
Can I Freeze Vegetarian Mulligatawny Soup?
Yes, you can freeze vegetarian mulligatawny soup. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a little water or broth to adjust the consistency.
What Type Of Lentils Should I Use In Vegetarian Mulligatawny Soup?
Red lentils are most commonly used in mulligatawny soup because they cook quickly and break down into a smooth, creamy texture. However, you can also use yellow or green lentils, but they may require a longer cooking time.