Traditional Koottu Recipe with Veettu Masala

Koottu is a delicious South Indian dish made with lentils and vegetables, seasoned with aromatic spices. Here’s an easy, step-by-step guide to making a traditional koottu using Veettu Masala Koottu Masala.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup lentils (moong dhal or channa dhal)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 250g vegetables (your choice)
• 2 tsp Veettu Masala Koottu Masala
• 2 tsp oil (coconut, peanut, or sunflower)
• ½ tsp mustard seeds
• 2 dried red chilies
• Curry leaves
• Pinch of hing (asafoetida)
• 2 tbsp grated coconut or coconut chunks
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• Salt to taste
• Coriander leaves for garnish
• Pinch of turmeric (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Lentils:
   Boil or pressure cook 1 cup of either moong dhal or channa dhal with 2.5 cups of water until soft. Once cooked, set aside.
2. Prepare the Masala Paste:
   In a blender, grind 2 teaspoons of Veettu Masala Koottu Masala, 2 tablespoons of grated coconut (or coconut chunks), fennel seeds, and a pinch of turmeric powder (optional). Add a little water to make a smooth paste and set aside.
3. Tempering the Spices:
   Heat 2 teaspoons of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add mustard seeds, dried red chilies, curry leaves, and hing. Once the mustard seeds start to splutter, add chopped onions and tomatoes. Sauté until softened.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
   Add the chopped vegetables to the pan with 2 cups of water. Let the mixture come to a boil and allow the vegetables to cook through.
5. Add the Masala Paste:
   Once the vegetables are soft, add the prepared masala paste, salt to taste, and allow the koottu to boil for 10 minutes, letting the flavors blend together.
6. Finish the Koottu:
   Stir in the cooked dhal and let the mixture simmer for 5 more minutes. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve your hearty and flavorful koottu with hot rice, idly, dosa, or chapathi for a wholesome and satisfying meal.

This traditional koottu, made with Veettu Masala Koottu Masala, brings the essence of South Indian comfort food to your table. Enjoy!