Mulligatawny Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mulligatawny Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish with layers of spices that create a rich, aromatic base. The chicken adds protein, while the coconut milk adds creaminess and depth. The combination of curry powder, garam masala, and cayenne pepper provides a subtle heat, while the apple gives a touch of sweetness that balances the spices beautifully. The addition of rice makes it hearty and filling. This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it a great dish for cozy dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless chicken breast or thighs, sliced into short, thin strips
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon flour

For the Soup:

• 3 tablespoons olive or coconut oil, divided usage
• 1 small/medium onion, chopped
• 2 ribs celery, chopped
• 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 2 teaspoons curry powder (mild or hot, your choice)
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1 quart chicken broth
• 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
• 1 sweet-tart apple (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, peeled)
• 14-ounce can coconut milk, well shaken
• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Chicken:

1. In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with the cumin, coriander, garam masala, cayenne pepper, salt, and flour. Toss the chicken to coat it evenly with the spices and flour mixture. Set aside.

For the Soup:

2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive or coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
3. In the same pot, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté for about 7-8 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic, garam masala, and curry powder to the pot. Stir well for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to become fragrant.
5. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour over the vegetable mixture and stir to coat the vegetables evenly. Let the flour cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
6. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
7. Stir in the uncooked rice and diced apple. Continue to simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
8. Add the coconut milk to the soup and stir to combine. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.
9. Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables such as potatoes, cauliflower, or peas. You can also add tofu or chickpeas for protein.
• Spicy Version: For a spicier soup, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped fresh chilies when sautéing the onions.
• Low-Carb Version: Skip the rice and use cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
• No Coconut Milk: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can substitute the coconut milk with regular milk, cream, or a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The soup may thicken slightly as it sits.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little extra chicken broth or water if needed to thin it out. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. Just be sure to remove the bones once the chicken is cooked, and shred it before adding it back into the soup.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, Mulligatawny Soup is even better the next day as the flavors develop. Store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze Mulligatawny Soup. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add more broth or water as the soup may thicken during freezing.

Can I use another type of rice?

Yes, you can use other types of rice, such as brown rice or jasmine rice, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Adjust the simmering time accordingly.

Can I make this soup spicier?

Yes, you can add more cayenne pepper, fresh chilies, or a bit of chili paste to increase the heat. You can also use a hot curry powder instead of a mild one.

Can I make this soup without the rice?

Yes, you can omit the rice for a lower-carb version. You could substitute it with extra vegetables or cauliflower rice for a similar texture.

How can I make this soup creamier?

To make the soup creamier, you can add more coconut milk or even a splash of heavy cream. Blending a portion of the soup with an immersion blender will also give it a creamier texture.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables such as sweet potatoes, spinach, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth works just as well in this soup if you want to make it vegetarian or vegan.

How do I adjust the flavor if it’s too bland?

If the soup is too bland, add more garam masala, curry powder, salt, or pepper to taste. A squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar can also help brighten the flavor.

Conclusion

Mulligatawny Soup is a flavorful, comforting dish that brings together spices, chicken, rice, and coconut milk in a hearty, satisfying bowl. Whether you’re in the mood for something cozy and warming or are looking for a unique dish to try, this soup offers bold flavors and a rich, creamy texture. The combination of aromatic spices and tender chicken, balanced with a touch of sweetness from the apple, makes it a truly special meal. Easy to make and even better as leftovers, this soup is sure to become a favorite!

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