Chicken Mulligatawny Soup Recipe With Perfect Ingredients To Enhance Your Taste

Stepping into the fragrant world of soups, the captivating tale of Chicken Mulligatawny Soup Recipe leads us on a culinary adventure, tracing the footprints of history.

This intricate blend of flavor profiles borrows its roots from the gorgeous kitchens of South India, becoming a beloved staple in Anglo-Indian cuisine. 

Picture this: juicy chunks of chicken swirled with vibrant turmeric and fiery peppers, harmoniously dancing with aromatic lentils and coconut milk. The resulting masterpiece is a beautifully layered soup with rich flavors and diverse textures. 

Every spoonful is a ticket, transporting you across continents, from the bustling streets of Chennai to the charming English countryside. Ideal for nourishing the soul on a chilly evening or as a comfort dish to lift your spirits, this soup captivates the senses, promising a gastronomic journey like no other. 

So, are you ready to immerse yourself in the fascinating universe of Chicken Mulligatawny?

What Is Chicken Mulligatawny Soup?

Chicken Mulligatawny Soup is a rich, flavorful dish that combines elements of both Indian and Western cuisines.

The name “Mulligatawny” comes from the Tamil words “milagu” (pepper) and “thanni” (water), reflecting its South Indian origins.

It was adapted for British tastes during the colonial era in India, becoming a hybrid recipe popular in Anglo-Indian cuisine.

The soup generally starts with a base of sautéed onions, garlic, and ginger, followed by a mix of spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander.

Chicken is often added and cooked until tender. Some variations include vegetables like carrots and celery. 

Lentils, an Indian staple, provide thickness to the soup, while coconut milk gives it a creamy, rich texture. The soup is typically finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkling of fresh cilantro.

The result is a hearty, comforting soup with a perfect balance of spiciness and acidity, creaminess and texture. It’s a truly multicultural dish representing the fusion of different culinary traditions.

History Of Chicken Mulligatawny Soup

Chicken Mulligatawny Soup is an exquisite example of culinary fusion, born during British colonial rule in India in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Originally, “mulligatawny” was a spicy Tamil pepper water (“milagu thanni”). 

The British adapted it, introducing meat and transforming it into a rich, hearty soup more akin to their palate. Adding chicken, vegetables, and local spices culminated in the version we know today.

Hence, Chicken Mulligatawny Soup is a testament to cultural exchange, a flavorful melange of Indian spice and British culinary tradition enjoyed around the globe.

What Makes The Chicken Mulligatawny Soup Special?

What makes Chicken Mulligatawny Soup special is its unique fusion of Indian and Western culinary traditions, showcasing a rich interplay of flavors, ingredients, and techniques.

• Complex Flavors: This soup combines various spices such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander, creating a depth of flavor that is both spicy and subtly sweet.
• Diverse Textures: Ingredients like tender chicken, creamy lentils, and crisp vegetables contribute to various textures, making each spoonful interesting.
• Versatility: Mulligatawny can be adapted to suit individual preferences, with variations including the addition of rice, apples, or cream.
• Cultural Significance: The soup represents a significant period in culinary history, born from British colonial times in India. This multicultural heritage makes it an intriguing dish for food enthusiasts.
• Nutritional Value: It’s not just about taste. Chicken Mulligatawny Soup also packs a nutritional punch with protein-rich chicken, fiber-loaded lentils, and various vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and spices.

Interesting Facts About Chicken Mulligatawny Soup 

• Origins: ‘Mulligatawny’ comes from the Tamil words’ milagu’ and ‘thanni,’ which mean ‘pepper’ and ‘water,’ respectively. It was originally a pepper-infused broth, transformed by the British into a more substantial soup during their colonial rule in India.
• Global Popularity: This soup’s popularity spread across the globe along with the British Empire. It became trendy in England and often served as a starter in Indian restaurants.
• Flexible Recipe: The beauty of this dish is that there is no single correct recipe for Chicken Mulligatawny Soup. Its ingredients can be adjusted based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions. Some versions incorporate rice or apples, while others add cream for extra richness.
• Healing Properties: Given its hearty combination of spices, proteins, and vegetables, Chicken Mulligatawny Soup is a comforting dish during the cold season. Its warming spices are thought to aid digestion and boost immunity.
• Culinary Fusion: Chicken Mulligatawny Soup is a prime example of culinary fusion, representing a melding of British and Indian culinary traditions.
  It’s a testament to the creativity and adaptability of cooks throughout history, adjusting their recipes to suit local tastes and available ingredients.

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Quantity
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts	1 lb
Vegetable Oil	2 Tbsp
Medium Onion, Diced	1
Garlic Clove, Minced	1
Hot Curry Powder	1 Tbsp
Ground Ginger	1/2 tsp
Ground Cloves	A pinch
Diced Carrots	1 cup
Chicken Stock	5 cups
Cooked Long-Grain or Basmati Rice	1 cup
Unsweetened Coconut Milk	1 cup

Garnishing Table

Garnish	Quantity
Chopped Peanuts (for garnish)	1/4 cup
Raisins (for garnish)	1/4 cup
Diced Apple (for garnish)	1/4 cup

Ingredient Tips 

• Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces if you can. They can lend more flavor to the soup during cooking, and you can always remove the skin and bones before serving.
• Spices: Freshly ground spices can significantly enhance the flavor of the soup. If you can’t find hot curry powder, substitute it with mild curry powder and add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Vegetables: The carrots should be diced small enough to become tender during cooking. The onions and garlic should be finely chopped to blend well into the soup and provide an even flavor.
• Chicken Stock: Homemade chicken stock can give your soup a more robust flavor. However, a good-quality store-bought stock can also work well.
• Rice: If you prepare the soup beforehand, consider adding the cooked rice just before serving. This will prevent the rice from becoming too soft and mushy.
• Coconut Milk: Be sure to use unsweetened coconut milk, not coconut cream or coconut drink. The former gives the soup a rich, creamy texture without adding unwanted sweetness.
• Garnish: The garnishes add a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Feel free to play around with these – try toasted almond flakes, dried currants, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

The Chicken Mulligatawny Soup recipe can be easily adapted to fit various dietary preferences:

• Keto: To make the soup keto-friendly, you can omit the rice or replace it with a low-carb substitute like cauliflower rice.
• Paleo: For a Paleo version, again, you’ll need to remove the rice. Instead, you could add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Also, make sure to use homemade or specifically paleo-friendly stock, as some store-bought versions may contain non-Paleo ingredients.
• Gluten-Free: This soup is naturally gluten-free, but it’s important to ensure that your curry powder and chicken stock are certified gluten-free, as some brands might contain gluten additives.
• Whole30: To make a Whole30-compliant version, omit the rice and the peanuts from the garnish. Add extra veggies to make it more substantial, and garnish with Whole30-compliant toppings like sliced almonds.

Recipe Directions

• Dice boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cook in 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil until white.
• Add diced onion, minced garlic, 1 tablespoon curry powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, pinch of ground cloves, and 1 cup diced carrots. Cook for 1 minute.
• Pour in 5 cups chicken stock, bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 25 minutes.
• Add 1 cup cooked long-grain or basmati rice, heat for 2 minutes to break up clumps.
• Stir in 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk.
• Serve immediately, garnish with chopped peanuts, raisins, and diced apple.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings For The Recipe

The Chicken Mulligatawny Soup recipe is flexible and can be tailored according to personal tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ideas for variations, add-ons, and toppings:

Variations

• Vegetarian Mulligatawny: You can make this soup vegetarian by removing the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. You should add some lentils or chickpeas for extra protein.
• Seafood Mulligatawny: Substitute the chicken with shrimp or fish for a seafood version.
• Spicy Mulligatawny: If you love heat, add a diced jalapeño or increase the curry powder.

Add-Ons

• Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or tomatoes.
• Protein: Add some cooked chickpeas or lentils if you want more protein.
• Grains: You could add other grains like quinoa or bulgur instead of rice.

Toppings

• Nuts and Fruits: Apart from the suggested peanuts, raisins, and apples, you could also use toasted almonds, dried currants, or diced pear for garnish.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley can add freshness.
• Dairy: A dollop of Greek yogurt or a swirl of cream can add a tangy, creamy element.
• Spice: For more kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle hot sauce on top.

Scaling The Recipe

Scaling a recipe up or down can be simple math. However, it’s important to consider the size of your cooking vessel and the cooking times when making adjustments.

Scaling Up

• Multiply all the ingredient quantities by two. For example, instead of 1 lb of chicken, you would use 2 lbs. Instead of 2 Tbsp of vegetable oil, you would use 4 Tbsp, and so on.
• Bear in mind that you’ll need a large enough pot to accommodate the increased volume.
• The cooking time must be adjusted, especially the simmering time, as the larger volume might take longer to boil.

Scaling Down

• Divide all the ingredient quantities by two. For example, you would use 1/2 lb of chicken, 1 Tbsp of vegetable oil, etc.
• The cooking time might decrease slightly as the smaller volume would heat up faster.
• Note: When scaling down, use your best judgment if the recipe calls for an odd number of an ingredient (e.g., 1 garlic clove). Half a garlic clove might not impact flavor much, but rounding up to one might be preferable for taste.

What Is Used For Garnishing Chicken Mulligatawny Soup?

Traditionally, Chicken Mulligatawny Soup is garnished with chopped peanuts, raisins, and diced apples.

This trio adds a delightful mix of textures and flavors, contrasting the savory and spicy soup with crunch, sweetness, and freshness.

However, garnishing can be quite versatile, and you could experiment with other options based on your preferences. Here are some alternatives:

• Herbs: Fresh herbs like chopped cilantro, parsley, or mint can add color and freshness.
• Nuts and Dried Fruits: Other than peanuts, consider using toasted almond flakes or cashews for crunch. Dried currants or chopped dried apricots can substitute for raisins.
• Dairy: A swirl of cream or a dollop of yogurt can add a creamy, tangy element to the soup.
• Spice: For more heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle a hot sauce.

Can I Make Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Chicken Mulligatawny Soup can be adapted for slow and Instant Pot methods.

Slow Cooker

• Add your chicken, vegetables, and spices to your slow cooker. Pour in your chicken stock.
• Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow-cooking method allows for a deep melding of the flavors.
• Add in the cooked rice and coconut milk about 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve. This will prevent the rice from becoming too mushy and the coconut milk from curdling.
• Adjust the seasoning, garnish as desired, and serve!

Instant Pot

• Using the sauté function on your Instant Pot, cook your chicken, vegetables, and spices as you would on the stovetop.
• Add the chicken stock, seal the Instant Pot, and set it to pressure cook on high for about 15 minutes.
• Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release the remaining pressure.
• Add the cooked rice and coconut milk to the Instant Pot, then stir well.
• Adjust the seasoning, garnish as desired, and serve!

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

You can certainly use store-bought chicken broth or stock for making Chicken Mulligatawny Soup.

Many people do so for convenience, and it can still create a delicious soup. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

• Flavor: Homemade chicken stock often has a richer, deeper flavor than most store-bought versions, which can enhance the taste of your soup. If you do use store-bought, opt for a high-quality, low-sodium version. This way, you can control the amount of salt in the recipe.
• Ingredients: Store-bought chicken broth can sometimes contain added preservatives or flavor enhancers. If you’re concerned about these additives, check the label carefully or consider making your own.
• Dietary Restrictions: If you have specific nutritional needs or restrictions, such as gluten-free, low-sodium, or certain allergies, it may be safer to make your stock to ensure it’s free from ingredients you must avoid.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Chicken Mulligatawny Soup?

One of the great things about Chicken Mulligatawny Soup is that it’s incredibly adaptable. Here are some ideas on how you can switch up the protein, grains, and vegetables in this recipe:

• Protein: While chicken is traditional in this dish, you can use different types of meat or seafood based on your preference. Try lamb for a richer flavor or shrimp for a lighter, seafood-based soup. You can replace the chicken with lentils, chickpeas, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Grains: The recipe calls for long-grain or basmati rice, but you can use other grains like quinoa, bulgur, or even small pasta shapes. If you’re looking for a low-carb or grain-free option, cauliflower rice would be a great alternative.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute the vegetables according to your taste or what’s in season. Bell peppers, peas, diced tomatoes, zucchini, or spinach could all be wonderful in this soup.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making Chicken Mulligatawny Soup

Chicken Mulligatawny Soup is a flavorful and warming dish perfect for any time of the year. Here are some tips and tricks for preparing and cooking this soup to get the best results:

Prepping Time Tips

• Prep Your Ingredients in Advance: The process will be smoother and quicker if you have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. Dice your chicken and veggies, measure your spices, and have everything at hand.
• Use a Food Processor: If you’re short on time, a food processor can quickly chop your onions, carrots, and garlic.

Cooking Tips

• Cook Your Spices: When you add your curry powder, ginger, and cloves. Cook them for a minute or two before adding the chicken stock. This helps release the spices flavors and gives the soup a deeper taste.
• Simmer Slowly: Once the stock is added, bring it to a boil and then reduce the heat to let it simmer. This allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender.
• Add Rice and Coconut Milk at the End: To prevent the rice from becoming too mushy and the coconut milk from curdling, add these ingredients towards the end of cooking.

Nutritional Values

Chicken Mulligatawny Soup is not just delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The chicken provides high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. 

The array of vegetables contributes vitamins, minerals, and fiber, promoting good digestive health. Additionally, spices like curry powder and ginger offer anti-inflammatory properties. 

Coconut milk adds a dose of healthy fats, supporting heart health. Please note specific nutritional values will depend on exact ingredient quantities.

What Are The Total Calories In Chicken Mulligatawny Soup?

The total calories in Chicken Mulligatawny Soup can vary greatly depending on the specific ingredients and their quantities used in the recipe. However, on average, a serving of Chicken Mulligatawny Soup might contain between 200-300 calories.

This estimate includes chicken, vegetables, spices, rice, and coconut milk.

This is a rough estimate, and actual caloric content may vary. To get a more accurate calculation, you would need to input the specific ingredients and their quantities you’re using into a nutritional calculator, many of which are available for free online.

Also, keep in mind that portion size will also impact the total calories consumed.

Dietary Restrictions For Chicken Mulligatawny Soup

Chicken Mulligatawny Soup, as traditionally prepared, may not be suitable for all dietary restrictions. Here are some potential limits to be aware of:

• Vegetarian/Vegan: The recipe includes chicken and chicken stock, which are unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans. However, these can be replaced with plant-based proteins like lentils or chickpeas, and vegetable stock can be used instead of chicken stock.
• Gluten-Free: Most ingredients in the soup are naturally gluten-free, but some store-bought chicken stocks and curry powders may contain gluten. Check labels carefully or make your own to ensure they are gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: The soup is typically dairy-free, using coconut milk instead of dairy cream. However, always verify labels as some store-bought curry powders might have milk derivatives.
• Nut-Free: The soup is often garnished with chopped peanuts, which should be omitted for individuals with nut allergies.
• Low-Carb/Keto: The rice in the soup contributes to its carbohydrate content. The rice could be replaced with cauliflower rice or omitted altogether for a lower-carb or keto version.
• Paleo/Whole30: Rice is not typically included in Paleo or Whole30 diets. Substitute it with cauliflower rice or extra veggies. Also, ensure your chicken stock and curry powder comply with these diet guidelines.

Health Benefits Of Chicken Mulligatawny Soup

Chicken Mulligatawny Soup is comforting, flavorful, and packed with several health benefits. Here’s a brief look at some of them:

• Protein-Rich: The chicken in this soup is a great source of lean protein, which is crucial for muscle growth and repair and helps keep you full and satisfied.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The various vegetables used in the soup, such as onions and carrots, contribute to multiple vitamins and minerals.
  These nutrients support numerous bodily functions, including immune system function, heart health, and vision.
• Spices with Health Benefits: Curry powder, the main spice in this soup, contains turmeric, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
  Other spices like ginger and cloves also have medicinal properties and can aid digestion.
• Healthy Fats: Coconut milk adds creaminess to the soup and provides healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health and sustain energy.
• Hydration: Soup is a good source of hydration, which is especially beneficial when you’re unwell.
• Fiber: Adding lentils or veggies to the soup can further increase the fiber content, promoting digestive health and feelings of fullness.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make Chicken Mulligatawny Soup Lower In Sodium?

Reducing the sodium content of Chicken Mulligatawny Soup can be achieved in several ways:

• Low-Sodium Chicken Stock: Use a low-sodium or unsalted chicken stock as the base for your soup. This can greatly reduce the overall sodium content.
• Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables usually contain less sodium than canned ones. For canned vegetables or beans, look for low-sodium versions or rinse them thoroughly.
• Spices and Herbs: Use herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of your soup without adding extra sodium. Fresh ginger, curry powder, and cloves add a lot of flavor.
• Limit Added Salt: Be cautious with the amount of added salt. The chicken stock and other ingredients often add enough flavor that little to no extra salt is needed.
• Homemade Curry Powder: Store-bought curry powders may contain sodium. Making your own at home allows you to control the amount of salt.

How Can I Make Chicken Mulligatawny Soup Lower In Sugar?

Chicken Mulligatawny Soup naturally contains minimal sugar, mainly from the natural sugars in vegetables and coconut milk. However, if you want to ensure your soup is as low in sugar as possible, consider the following tips:

• Check Your Broth: Some store-bought chicken broths can contain added sugars, so opt for a sugar-free or homemade version to minimize this.
• Watch Your Coconut Milk: Some brands of coconut milk can have added sugars, so be sure to select an unsweetened version.
• Mind Your Garnishes: The traditional garnishes of raisins and apples contribute some natural sugars. If you aim to minimize sugars, you could omit them or replace them with a low-sugar option, such as chopped nuts or seeds.
• Spice Selection: Double-check your curry powder or other spice mixes for added sugars. Some spice mixes may contain sugar, so opt for ones that don’t, or make your own at home.

How To Serve And Side Dishes For Chicken Mulligatawny Soup?

Chicken Mulligatawny Soup is a rich, hearty, and flavorful dish that can stand alone as a main course.

However, if you’d like to expand your meal or add variety, here are some serving suggestions and possible side dishes:

How To Serve

• Garnish: Enhance the soup’s presentation with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts, raisins, and diced apples on top. A sprig of fresh coriander or a squeeze of lemon can add a new flavor.
• Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread, naan, or pita bread for dipping.
• Rice: If you’ve made the soup without rice, you could serve it over a bed of basmati rice for added texture and heartiness.

Perfect Side Dishes To Accompany The Recipe

• Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the hearty, creamy soup. A cucumber and tomato salad or a simple green salad would pair well.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or cauliflower can complement the soup and add nutrients.
• Grilled or Steamed Protein: If you want to increase the protein in the meal, grilled chicken, shrimp, or steamed tofu could be served on the side.

Storage And Repurposing

For storage, refrigerate Chicken Mulligatawny Soup in airtight containers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw (if frozen) and simmer gently until hot. For repurposing, add fresh vegetables or leftover cooked protein during reheating for a new twist on the original soup.

How Long Can We Store The Chicken Mulligatawny Soup?

Chicken Mulligatawny Soup can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure you place the soup in an airtight container and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking.

If you want to store the soup longer, you can freeze it. Chicken Mulligatawny Soup will maintain its best quality in the freezer for about 4-6 months. Still, it will remain safe to eat beyond that time if kept continuously frozen.

When you’re ready to eat the soup, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove over medium heat until it’s steaming hot. Remember, the soup should only be reheated once after the initial cooking.

Can I Make Chicken Mulligatawny Soup In Advance?

Chicken Mulligatawny Soup is a great candidate for making in advance. Soups like this often taste even better the next day after the flavors have had a chance to meld together.

Once the soup is cooled, refrigerate it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve it, reheat it gently on the stove until it’s steaming hot.

If the soup becomes too thick after refrigeration (as the rice may absorb more broth), add more broth or water during reheating to achieve the desired consistency.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

Leftover Chicken Mulligatawny Soup is extremely versatile and can be used in several delicious ways:

• Repurpose into a new soup: Add fresh ingredients to change the flavor profile. Consider adding vegetables, a different type of protein, or even noodles.
• Stir into a curry or stew: The soup is flavorful and can be a great base for a chicken curry or stew. Add more spices, vegetables, and protein as needed.
• Use as a sauce: Thicken the soup with a bit of cornstarch and use it as a unique, flavorful sauce over rice or grilled meat.
• Freeze for later: This soup freezes well to save the leftovers for another day. Portion it into individual servings before freezing for a quick and easy future meal.

Special Tools/Equipment Needed For The Recipe

Chicken Mulligatawny Soup can be made with common kitchen tools. Still, a few specific items can make the process easier and more efficient:

• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for dicing the chicken and chopping the vegetables.
• Cutting Board: To help chop the ingredients, you’ll need a sturdy cutting board.
• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A large pot or Dutch oven is ideal for sautéing the ingredients and simmering the soup.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: This is useful for stirring the ingredients as they cook to ensure they are evenly heated and don’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: These will ensure that you add the correct amount of each ingredient, significant for the spices and liquids.
• Ladle: For serving the soup, a ladle is a helpful tool.
• Blender or Immersion Blender (optional): If you prefer a smoother texture, you can puree part or all of the soup using a blender or immersion blender.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What Is The Origin Of The Name “Mulligatawny”?

The term “Mulligatawny” comes from the Tamil words “Milagu,” meaning pepper, and “Thanni,” meaning water. It translates to “pepper water” and was adopted by the British during their colonial rule in India.

Can I Make This Soup Spicy?

Absolutely! You can increase the heat in this soup by adding more curry powder or including some fresh or dried chili.

Can I Use Leftover Cooked Chicken For This Recipe?

Yes, you can use leftover cooked chicken. Add it towards the end of cooking to heat it without overcooking.

Can I Use Different Types Of Rice In This Soup?

While long-grain or basmati rice is recommended for this recipe, you can substitute it with other types like brown rice, wild rice, or jasmine rice. Cooking times may vary depending on the type of rice used.

Can I Make This Soup Without Coconut Milk?

Yes, you can make it without coconut milk. You can replace it with cream, yogurt, or almond milk for a similar creamy texture.