Best Rated Vegetarian Mulligatawny Authentic Soup Recipes

Mulligatawny soup is a classic dish that beautifully blends Indian spices with British culinary tradition, resulting in a rich, comforting soup that has won hearts worldwide. For vegetarians, this soup offers a delightful way to enjoy those aromatic spices without compromising on flavor or texture.

This blog post dives deep into the best rated vegetarian mulligatawny authentic soup recipes, bringing you options that stay true to the original while catering to a plant-based lifestyle. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying your hand at Indian cuisine for the first time, these recipes will guide you through creating a bowl of soulful warmth perfect for any season.

From the perfect balance of spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric to the creamy coconut milk or yogurt base, vegetarian mulligatawny soup is both hearty and healthy. This soup is ideal for meal prep, family dinners, or even impressing guests with your cooking skills.

Ready your spices and simmer away—this is an experience worth savoring.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Why settle for ordinary soups when you can indulge in the complex, layered flavors of mulligatawny? This vegetarian version offers:

• Authentic Indian flavors with a balanced spice profile.
• A nutritious, protein-packed meal featuring lentils, vegetables, and aromatic herbs.
• Versatility—easy to adjust spice levels and ingredients to suit your taste.
• Comforting warmth that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas.
• It’s naturally vegetarian and can be made vegan with simple swaps.

Plus, it pairs wonderfully with many other dishes, making it a fantastic addition to any meal plan.

Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 medium apple, peeled and diced (preferably tart apple)
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or ghee
• 1 tablespoon curry powder (use mild or hot, depending on preference)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Juice of ½ lemon or lime
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional toppings: toasted cashews, yogurt or vegan yogurt, chopped green chili

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Blender or immersion blender (optional for creamier texture)
• Ladle for serving
• Serving bowls

Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients: Rinse the red lentils under cold water until clear. Chop the onion, garlic, ginger, carrots, apple, and potato into small, even pieces for uniform cooking.
2. Toast the mustard seeds: Heat the vegetable oil in the pot over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and wait until they start to pop, releasing their nutty aroma.
3. Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the spices: Stir in the curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices, enhancing their flavors.
5. Incorporate vegetables and lentils: Add the diced carrots, potato, and apple. Stir well to coat everything with the spices. Then add the rinsed lentils and mix again.
6. Add broth and simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils and vegetables are tender.
7. Blend the soup (optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer half the soup to a blender and puree. Leave some chunks for texture if desired.
8. Stir in coconut milk: Add the coconut milk, stirring well to combine. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes to heat through and marry the flavors.
9. Season and finish: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Squeeze in the lemon or lime juice for a bright finish. Stir well.
10. Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and optional toppings like toasted cashews or a dollop of yogurt.

Tips & Variations

“To bring out the best flavors, always toast your spices before adding wet ingredients. This step makes a huge difference!”

• Spice Level: Adjust curry powder and add chopped green chilies or cayenne if you prefer heat.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked chickpeas or tofu cubes for extra protein.
• Vegan Option: Use coconut yogurt or skip yogurt entirely to keep the soup fully vegan.
• Texture: For a chunkier soup, skip blending or only partially blend.
• Storage: This soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 2 months.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Mulligatawny soup is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Try serving it with:

• Warm naan bread or garlic naan for dipping and soaking up the soup.
• Steamed basmati rice for a fuller meal experience.
• Fresh cucumber raita to add a cooling contrast to the spices.
• A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.

For a truly immersive experience, pair your soup with other Indian-inspired dishes or explore recipes like Leek Recipes Indian or Kale Tonic First Watch Recipe to complement the meal.

Conclusion

Vegetarian mulligatawny soup is a true testament to how rich flavors and wholesome ingredients can come together in perfect harmony. This recipe offers an authentic yet approachable take on a classic dish, ideal for anyone wanting to explore Indian flavors without meat.

The combination of lentils, fresh vegetables, and warming spices creates a nourishing, filling meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave something soothing and flavorful.

Making this soup at home allows you to customize spice levels and textures to your liking, ensuring every bowl suits your palette perfectly. Don’t forget to experiment with optional toppings and sides to create your perfect meal.

For more nourishing and creative recipes, be sure to check out our Magic Dough Recipe, Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe, and Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes for inspiration beyond the bowl. Happy cooking!

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