Mulligatawny Soup-a name that might sound a little unfamiliar but is steeped in both history and flavor. This dish, originally hailing from India, was brought to Britain during the colonial era, and over time, it became a staple in British dining. The name itself is derived from the Tamil word "millagu" (pepper) and "tanni" (water), meaning "pepper water." But don’t let the name fool you. This soup is far more than just a peppery broth. It’s a rich, aromatic, and hearty creation that combines a variety of spices, vegetables, and sometimes, meat.
One of the most famous renditions of this dish can be found at the Madras Club, an iconic institution known for its elegant atmosphere and impeccable culinary tradition. Their Mulligatawny Soup has achieved near-legendary status, captivating food lovers with its perfect balance of spice, warmth, and depth. So, if you’ve ever wondered how you can recreate this classic at home, you’re in for a treat! Let’s break down the recipe and dive deep into the world of flavors, techniques, and variations of this beloved soup.
Madras Club Mulligatawny Soup Recipe
Here’s the recipe for making a soup that’s as delicious as it is comforting. It’s packed with vibrant spices, rich textures, and a warmth that will linger long after you’ve had your last spoonful.
Ingredients Needed
To make this soup, you’ll need a variety of ingredients. Don’t worry, most of them are pantry staples or easy to find at your local grocery store or spice shop. Here’s the rundown:
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Vegetables
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 2 carrots (peeled and diced)
- 1 potato (peeled and diced)
- 1 tomato (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro (for garnish)
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Protein (optional):
- 1 cup cooked chicken (diced, or you can use turkey, lamb, or even seafood)
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Spices
- 2 teaspoons of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon of garam masala
- ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper (freshly ground)
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Liquids & Fats
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable stock (homemade is best, but store-bought works too)
- 1 tablespoon of ghee or unsalted butter (adds richness)
- 1 cup of coconut milk (this gives the soup a creamy, slightly sweet undertone)
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Acid
- Juice of 1 lemon (to add a touch of brightness)
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Additional Flavorings
- 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste (for that signature punch)
- Salt to taste
Cooking Instructions
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking! Here’s how to bring all these flavors together into a perfect bowl of Mulligatawny Soup.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- In a large pot, melt the ghee or butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, add the chopped onion. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and ground pepper. Stir constantly for another 1-2 minutes until the spices become fragrant.
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Cook The Vegetables
- Add the diced carrots, potatoes, and tomato to the pot. Stir everything together, ensuring the vegetables are coated with the spices. Let this mixture cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Add Liquids
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
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Blend The Soup
- At this point, you can either use an immersion blender or transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Puree the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. This is where you’ll get that creamy texture that makes Mulligatawny so irresistible.
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Add Coconut Milk And Chicken
- Once the soup is blended, return it to the pot and stir in the coconut milk and the cooked chicken. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Finish And Garnish
- Add the lemon juice and season with salt to taste. Give it a final stir.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Ingredient Insights
Let’s take a closer look at some of the key ingredients in this dish:
- Ghee or Butter: Ghee (clarified butter) is a key fat in Indian cooking. It’s rich, flavorful, and imparts a unique depth to the soup. If you’re unable to find ghee, unsalted butter is a suitable substitute.
- Ginger-Garlic Paste: A staple in Indian cooking, this paste brings both warmth and heat to the dish. You can make your own by blending equal parts fresh ginger and garlic with a little water or oil, or you can buy it pre-made at most grocery stores.
- Spices: The spices in Mulligatawny are the heart of the soup. Turmeric provides color and earthy flavor, cumin adds smokiness, coriander brings a citrusy note, garam masala adds complexity, and cinnamon adds a hint of sweetness. The careful balance of these spices is what sets this soup apart from other soups you’ve tried.
- Coconut Milk: Coconut milk adds a creamy richness and a subtle sweetness that balances out the spices. It also helps to create that smooth, velvety texture that’s characteristic of Mulligatawny.
Expert Tips
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer your Mulligatawny soup a little spicier, feel free to add a chopped green chili or increase the amount of black pepper. You can always add more, but it’s hard to take it out once it’s in!
- Vegetarian Version: If you’re looking to make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. You can add more veggies or even tofu for protein.
- Make Ahead: This soup actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had more time to develop, so feel free to make it ahead of time. It also freezes well for up to three months-perfect for a meal prep option!
- Balance the Flavors: Remember to taste your soup as it simmers, and don’t be afraid to tweak it. A little extra lemon juice or a pinch of sugar can help balance the flavors if the soup feels too heavy or spicy.
Recipe Variations
There are many ways you can put your own spin on Mulligatawny Soup. Here are a few variations you might want to try:
- Lentil Mulligatawny: Add red lentils to the soup for an extra layer of texture and protein. They also absorb the flavors beautifully and give the soup a more hearty, thick consistency.
- Mulligatawny with Rice: For a more filling version, serve your Mulligatawny Soup with a side of basmati rice. You can also add cooked rice directly into the soup to make it more of a stew.
- Spicy Mulligatawny: Add a few dried red chilies or some extra chili powder to amp up the heat level. This will give the soup a fiery kick that can be tempered with the creaminess of the coconut milk.
- Seafood Mulligatawny: Swap the chicken for shrimp or white fish, such as cod or tilapia. The delicate seafood will pair wonderfully with the spices and coconut milk.
Final Words
The Madras Club Mulligatawny Soup is an example of how a simple bowl of soup can bring together so many layers of flavor, history, and culture. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or add your own twist, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this comforting dish. It’s a perfect balance of spices, creaminess, and freshness, making it the ultimate dish for any occasion.
FAQs
What Is Madras Club Mulligatawny Soup?
Madras Club Mulligatawny Soup is a traditional Indian soup with roots in British colonial India. It is characterized by a rich, spiced broth made with lentils, vegetables, and sometimes chicken or lamb, flavored with curry spices and a hint of tanginess from tamarind or lemon. The soup was originally created as a light, flavorful dish for British officials in India.
What Ingredients Are Used In Madras Club Mulligatawny Soup?
The main ingredients include split yellow lentils (toor dal), onions, carrots, celery, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, curry leaves, and various spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Some versions also use chicken, lamb, or vegetables, and the soup is often finished with a squeeze of lemon juice or tamarind for acidity.
Can I Make Madras Club Mulligatawny Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, Madras Club Mulligatawny Soup can easily be made vegetarian by omitting the meat and focusing on the lentils and vegetables. You can also substitute vegetable broth for chicken stock to maintain the depth of flavor.
How Do I Achieve The Perfect Texture In Madras Club Mulligatawny Soup?
For a smooth, velvety texture, cook the lentils and vegetables until they are soft, then blend the soup to your desired consistency. Some recipes leave the soup chunky, while others prefer it completely smooth. Adjust the liquid (broth or water) to get the right consistency for your preference.
What Can I Substitute If I Don’t Have Tamarind For Madras Club Mulligatawny Soup?
If you don’t have tamarind, you can substitute with lemon juice or vinegar for acidity. Some recipes also use a little bit of sugar to balance out the flavors. However, tamarind’s unique sourness is difficult to fully replicate, so these substitutions will alter the flavor slightly.
Can Madras Club Mulligatawny Soup Be Made In Advance?
Yes, the soup can be made in advance. In fact, many people believe the flavors improve after sitting for a day. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze it for longer storage. When reheating, you may need to add a little water or broth to adjust the consistency.
What Is The Best Way To Serve Madras Club Mulligatawny Soup?
Madras Club Mulligatawny Soup is traditionally served with a side of rice, although it can also be enjoyed with crusty bread or naan. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of yogurt or cream for a richer flavor.
Can I Add Cream To Madras Club Mulligatawny Soup?
Yes, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to Madras Club Mulligatawny Soup for a richer, creamier texture. Some recipes call for cream at the end of cooking to balance out the spices and add a smooth finish.
What Spices Are Essential In Madras Club Mulligatawny Soup?
Essential spices for Madras Club Mulligatawny Soup include cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. These spices create the characteristic flavor profile of the soup. You may also use cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom in some variations to enhance the complexity.
Can I Make Madras Club Mulligatawny Soup Spicier?
Yes, you can make Madras Club Mulligatawny Soup spicier by adding green chilies, red chili powder, or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust the level of heat according to your taste preference, but be sure to balance the heat with the other flavors to maintain the complexity of the dish.