Mooli Salad
A crisp and refreshing North Indian salad made with grated radish, tangy lemon juice, and a hint of spice. This simple 'mooli ka laccha' is the perfect crunchy side dish to accompany rich curries and dals, ready in just 10 minutes.
For 4 servings
4 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Radish
- b.Thoroughly wash and peel the daikon radishes.
- c.Using a box grater or a food processor, grate the radishes into thin strands (laccha).
- 2
Step 2
- a.Remove Excess Water (Crucial Step)
- b.Place the grated radish in a clean muslin cloth, cheesecloth, or a fine-mesh sieve.
- c.Squeeze tightly to remove as much water as possible. This step is essential to prevent a soggy salad.
- d.Alternatively, you can press the grated radish firmly between your palms.
- e.Discard the water or save it for kneading dough (roti/paratha) or adding to soups.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Combine Ingredients
- b.Transfer the dry, squeezed radish to a mixing bowl.
- c.Add the finely chopped green chilies, coriander leaves, lemon juice, red chili powder, chaat masala, and salt.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Toss and Serve Immediately
- b.Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined.
- c.Taste and adjust the salt, lemon juice, or spices if needed.
- d.Serve immediately to enjoy its fresh, crunchy texture.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Serve the salad immediately. It will release water and lose its crunch if left to sit for too long.
- 2The most important step is squeezing out the water from the radish. Do not skip this.
- 3For the best texture and flavor, use fresh, firm radishes that are not soft or spongy.
- 4For a milder salad, you can deseed the green chilies before chopping them.
- 5The squeezed-out radish water is nutritious; use it to knead chapati dough or add it to dal or soups.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Vegetables
Mix in some grated carrots for a touch of sweetness and color, or add finely chopped onions for extra crunch.
Flavor BoostFlavor Boost
Add 1/2 teaspoon of roasted cumin powder (bhuna jeera) for a warm, earthy aroma.
Herb VariationHerb Variation
Incorporate 1 tablespoon of finely chopped mint leaves for an extra layer of freshness.
Tangy TwistTangy Twist
Add a pinch of black salt (kala namak) along with regular salt for a more complex, tangy flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Aids Digestion
Daikon radish is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which helps promote regular bowel movements, prevent constipation, and support a healthy gut microbiome.
Low in Calories
This salad is extremely low in calories and fat, making it an ideal choice for those looking to manage their weight or follow a calorie-controlled diet.
Rich in Vitamin C
Both radish and fresh lemon juice are good sources of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps boost the immune system and protect the body against free radicals.
Promotes Hydration
Radishes have a high water content, which contributes to your daily fluid intake and helps keep the body hydrated.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Mooli Salad (about half a cup) contains approximately 25-30 calories, making it a very light and low-calorie side dish.