Winter is incomplete without a healthy dose of Radish or Mooli in one form or another. Some of the most common dishes enjoyed during the cold months of north India include Mooli ka Parantha, Mooli Gajar ka Achar, Mooli Lachha (Instant Mooli Pickle) and Makka Mooli ke Paranthe.
Growing up, the kitchen was my favorite corner of the house. The rhythmic chopping, the sizzle of spices, and the aroma of freshly cooked meals were the language of love spoken by my mother and dadi. They had an incredible knack for turning humble ingredients into something extraordinary. Among their culinary gems, Mooli ka Lachha stood out for its simplicity and zest. This instant radish pickle, with its tangy, spicy kick, has always been a staple on our dining table. Its ability to elevate even the most basic meal is nothing short of magical.
Mooli ka Lachha is a North Indian delight, popular for its vibrant flavors and the way it pairs effortlessly with hearty Indian meals. Whether you’re enjoying a plate of parathas, dal chawal, or a bowl of khichdi, this dish is the perfect companion to add crunch and tang.
Highlighting the Simplicity of Mooli ka Lachha
The beauty of Mooli ka Lachha lies in its simplicity. Just a handful of ingredients come together to create an explosion of flavor. The hero of this dish is undoubtedly the radish or mooli. Its peppery and slightly sweet notes make it the perfect base for this instant pickle. With a little salt, a dash of lemon juice, and a sprinkle of spices, you can transform raw radish into a culinary masterpiece.
Tips for Perfect Mooli ka Lachha – Crunch, Texture, and Flavor
- Choose Fresh Radishes: Look for firm, white radishes with smooth skin. Fresher radishes are less likely to have a bitter taste.
- Grate with Care: Use a coarse grater to ensure the radish retains its crunch.
- Dealing with Bitterness: Sprinkle a little salt on grated radish and let it sit for 10 minutes. Squeeze out the excess water before mixing the spices.
- Enhance Tanginess: Fresh lemon juice is non-negotiable for that tangy zing.
- Balance the Flavors: Adjust the spice levels to your preference. A touch of sugar can help balance the heat if it’s too spicy.
Ingredients
- 2 fresh medium-sized radishes, grated
- 2 green chilies, sliced (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Radish: Peel and grate the radishes.
- Assemble the Dish: In a glass bowl, add the grated radish, and salt. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Add Tang and Heat: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the radish and add chopped green chilies if you like it spicy.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of freshness. Serve immediately or let it sit for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Best Ways of Serving Mooli ka Lachha
- Classic Pairings: Serve it as a side with parathas or dal chawal.
- Modern Twists: Use it as a topping for wraps, sandwiches, or burgers to add crunch and zest.
- Appetizing Plating: Arrange it in a small bowl or plate and sprinkle a few coriander leaves on top for an inviting presentation.
Regional Twists to the Classic Recipe
- Punjabi Style: Add a pinch of garam masala for a more robust flavor.
- South Indian Influence: Incorporate a tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves for a unique twist.
- Bengali Touch: Add a hint of mustard oil for a sharp, distinctive taste.
The Nutritional Value of Mooli ka Lachha
Radish is a powerhouse of nutrients. It aids digestion, boosts metabolism and is rich in vitamin C and fiber. Including raw vegetables like radish in your diet ensures you reap maximum health benefits while savoring vibrant flavors.
Every bite of Mooli ka Lachha takes me back to those family meals where laughter echoed around the table and flavors brought us closer. This simple yet flavorful pickle reminds us that the best things in life often come from the simplest ingredients. Try it once, and you might find yourself making it a permanent fixture in your kitchen. Whether as a sidekick to your favorite meals or a surprise topping in a sandwich, Mooli ka Lachha is here to add a burst of joy to your culinary adventures.
Let’s get to the recipe without much ado!
Mooli Lachha Recipe (Instant Mooli Pickle) | Radish Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 fresh radish
- 1 lemon
- 2 green chili
- to taste salt
Instructions
- Peel the radish using a peeler and set aside the radish leaves.
- Thoroughly wash and clean the radish.
- Chop green chili in 2-3 big size pieces. Set aside.
- Using a medium size grater, grate the radish well in a glass bowl.
- Add salt, green chili and lemon juice to the grated radish. Mix well and keep aside.
- Allow the radish & chili to absorb flavors from salt and lemon juice. 30 minutes is a good time for radish to become flavorful.
- Serve it with chapati or eat straight off the bowl.
- Radish Pickle can be stored in refrigerator for 1-2 days. It is best to eat fresh.
Notes
- If radish leaves are fresh, then they can be used to prepare a dish or subzi with a nice pungent flavor.
- I prefer using a glass bowl for serving and storing all types of pickles to avoid them turning bitter or rancid.
