Mulligatawny soup is a warm and aromatic dish that brings the bold and complex flavors of Indian cuisine to your table. This spiced lentil soup is both comforting and hearty, making it a perfect choice for cool evenings or whenever you crave something nourishing yet indulgent. By preparing a halal version, you can enjoy this traditional soup with peace of mind, savoring its rich taste and history.
What is Mulligatawny Soup?
The name “mulligatawny” comes from the Tamil words “milagu” (pepper) and “thanni” (water), meaning “pepper water.” Originating in South India, mulligatawny soup was adapted by British colonists to suit their tastes, often incorporating meat, vegetables, and cream.
This fusion dish typically features lentils, spices, coconut milk, and sometimes chicken or lamb, creating a thick and flavorful soup. The spices such as cumin, turmeric, and coriander lend it warmth, while the addition of fresh herbs and lemon adds brightness. Mulligatawny soup is versatile and can easily be made vegetarian, vegan, or meat-based, depending on your preference.
Non-Halal Components and Halal Alternatives
To ensure that your mulligatawny soup is halal, consider these potential non-halal components and their alternatives:
- Meat or Broth:
- Haram Issue: Traditional recipes may use non-halal chicken, lamb, or beef broth.
- Halal Alternative: Use halal-certified chicken or lamb and ensure that the broth is prepared with halal ingredients. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable stock.
- Ghee or Butter:
- Haram Issue: Commercial ghee or butter may include alcohol-based flavoring agents.
- Halal Alternative: Use halal-certified ghee, butter, or a plant-based alternative like coconut oil for a vegan option.
- Thickening Agents:
- Haram Issue: Some recipes may include flour or cornstarch processed with non-halal additives.
- Halal Alternative: Opt for certified halal flour or use naturally thickening ingredients like pureed lentils.
By sourcing halal-certified products, you can recreate this comforting soup in its most authentic and permissible form.
Tools You’ll Need:
- A large soup pot or Dutch oven for even cooking
- An immersion blender or standard blender for pureeing
- A ladle for serving
How to Make Halal Mulligatawny Soup
Halal Mulligatawny Soup
Course: SoupsCuisine: IndianDifficulty: Medium4
servings10
minutes50
minutes277
kcalMulligatawny is a traditional, rich, and creamy Indian curry soup made with lentils. It’s usually served with rice and vegetables.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
- For the Soup Base:
2 tablespoons of halal-certified ghee or coconut oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1 teaspoon of ground coriander
1 teaspoon of turmeric
1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
1 cup of red lentils, rinsed
1 medium carrot, diced
1 medium apple, peeled and diced
1 can (400 milliliters) of coconut milk
4 cups of halal chicken stock or vegetable stock
- Optional Additions:
300 grams of halal chicken breast, diced, or cubed tofu for a vegetarian option
- For Garnishing:
Fresh cilantro leaves
Lemon wedges
Cooked basmati rice (optional)
STEPS TO FOLLOW
- Prepare the Base:
- Heat ghee or coconut oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until fragrant and softened.
- Add Spices and Vegetables:
- Stir in ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices. Add the diced carrot, apple, and rinsed lentils, stirring to coat them in the spices.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the coconut milk and stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Blend for Creaminess:
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. For a chunkier texture, blend only part of the soup and leave some vegetables and lentils whole.
- Add Protein (Optional):
- If using chicken, add the diced pieces to the soup and simmer for an additional 10 minutes until fully cooked. For a vegetarian version, stir in cubed tofu and heat through.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve with cooked basmati rice for a heartier meal.
PERSONAL NOTES
Why You’ll Love Halal Mulligatawny Soup
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of spices, coconut milk, and fresh herbs creates a beautifully layered taste.
- Nutritious and Filling: Lentils and vegetables make this soup a healthy, high-protein option for any meal.
- Versatile: Easily adapt the recipe to include chicken, lamb, tofu, or keep it vegan.
- Warm and Comforting: Perfect for cold days or whenever you need a soothing dish to lift your spirits.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal equipment, this recipe is beginner-friendly and quick to make.
Conclusion
Halal mulligatawny soup is a flavorful and nourishing dish that captures the essence of Indian cuisine. Its blend of spices, creamy coconut milk, and hearty lentils makes it a satisfying meal for any occasion. By following this recipe, you can enjoy a halal version of this classic soup, perfect for warming up on chilly days or impressing guests with an exotic yet comforting dish.
Try it today and discover why mulligatawny soup has been a beloved favorite for generations!
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