Mulo Ghonto
A classic Bengali stir-fry where grated radish is cooked with potatoes and aromatic spices. This traditional dish has a unique sweet and savory flavor, perfect to be served alongside steamed rice and dal for a comforting meal.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Radish and Potatoes
- b.Place the grated daikon radish in a large bowl. Using your hands, squeeze out as much water as possible. This is a crucial step to prevent a soggy dish. Set the squeezed radish aside.
- c.Ensure your potatoes are peeled and diced into small, uniform cubes.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Fry the Potatoes
- b.Heat the mustard oil in a kadai or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until it is fragrant and slightly smoking.
- c.Carefully add the diced potatoes. Fry for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- d.Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried potatoes from the pan and set them aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Temper the Spices (Tadka)
- b.In the same oil, reduce the heat to low. Add the panch phoron, bay leaves, and broken dried red chilies.
- c.Sauté for about 30-40 seconds, until the spices start to splutter and release their aroma. Be careful not to burn them.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Cook the Radish
- b.Add the ginger paste and slit green chilies to the pan and sauté for another 30 seconds.
- c.Add the squeezed grated radish. Stir well to coat with the oil and spices.
- d.Add the turmeric powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder. Mix everything thoroughly.
- e.Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes to prevent sticking. The radish will soften and lose its raw smell.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Combine and Finish
- b.Uncover the pan. Add the fried potatoes, salt, and sugar. Mix gently to combine all the ingredients.
- c.Continue to cook uncovered for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until any remaining moisture has evaporated and the dish is semi-dry.
- d.Turn off the heat. Stir in the ghee and garam masala powder for a final touch of flavor and aroma.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- c.Serve hot as a side dish with steamed rice and dal for a complete Bengali meal.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Squeezing the water from the grated radish is the most important step for a perfect, non-soggy Mulo Ghonto.
- 2Using mustard oil is highly recommended for the authentic pungent flavor characteristic of Bengali cuisine.
- 3Don't skip the sugar; it's essential for balancing the slight bitterness and pungency of the radish.
- 4Cook the radish on a low flame to allow it to cook slowly in its own steam, which develops a deeper flavor.
- 5For extra flavor, you can add a handful of fresh or frozen green peas along with the fried potatoes.
Adapt it for your goals.
Non-Vegetarian
Add small fried shrimps (chingri maach) along with the potatoes for a classic 'Chingri diye Mulo Ghonto'.
Non VegetarianNon-Vegetarian
For a more traditional and flavorful version, add a fried fish head (maacher matha), typically from Rohu or Katla fish, crumbling it into the dish as it cooks.
Flavor EnhancerFlavor Enhancer
Add 2-3 tablespoons of freshly grated coconut towards the end of cooking for a richer texture and slightly sweet flavor.
Vegetable AdditionVegetable Addition
Incorporate a handful of green peas (motor shuti) when you add the fried potatoes for a pop of color and sweetness.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Aids Digestion
Daikon radish is rich in dietary fiber, which promotes regular bowel movements and supports overall gut health. Ginger also helps in soothing the digestive system.
Rich in Antioxidants
The spices used, particularly turmeric (containing curcumin), are packed with antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Supports Weight Management
This dish is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a filling and satisfying option that can help you feel full for longer, thus aiding in weight management.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Mulo Ghonto is quite healthy. Daikon radish is low in calories and high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion. The use of various spices like turmeric and ginger also provides anti-inflammatory benefits. It's a nutritious vegetable side dish.