Are you ready to ignite your taste buds with a burst of flavor? Look no further! Radishes are often overlooked as a humble ingredient, but they pack a punch when it comes to adding spice and excitement to your meals. In India, where the use of chilies is an integral part of many cuisines, radishes are transformed into a variety of delicious dishes that showcase their unique flavor and texture. From savory curries and stews to crispy fritters and flavorful preserves, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 18 spicy radish recipes Indian delicacies.
In the following pages, we’ll explore the diverse ways in which radishes are used across different regions of India, from the creamy curries of North India to the fiery chutneys of South India. Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or just looking for new inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to add a kick to your cooking.
Mooli Paratha (Spiced Radish Flatbread)
A flavorful and aromatic flatbread from North India, Mooli Paratha is a perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes. This spiced radish flatbread is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 2 large radishes, peeled and grated
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine grated radish, flour, baking powder, salt, and spices.
2. Add ghee or oil and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 6 inches in diameter.
6. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 30-40 seconds on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Radish Sambar (South Indian Lentil Stew with Radish)
This Radish Sambar recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional lentil stew, adding the crunch and flavor of radishes. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side to accompany your favorite South Indian dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 2 medium radishes, peeled and chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: mustard seeds, curry leaves, or other spices of your choice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic, radishes, and a pinch of salt. Cook until the radishes are tender (5-6 minutes).
4. Drain the lentils and add them to the pan with 2 cups of fresh water.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are soft.
6. Season with salt and any additional spices desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Radish Thoran (Kerala-style Stir-fry with Coconut)
A flavorful and aromatic stir-fry from Kerala, Radish Thoran is a perfect accompaniment to rice or roti. This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of radishes with the richness of coconut and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup radish, peeled and chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add mustard seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Add chopped radish and stir-fry for 5 minutes or until tender.
5. Season with salt and cumin powder to taste.
6. Stir in coconut milk and cook for an additional minute.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mooli Ki Sabzi (North Indian Radish Curry)
This flavorful and aromatic curry is a staple in North Indian cuisine, made with the humble radish as its star ingredient. With its creamy tomato-based sauce and subtle spices, Mooli Ki Sabzi is a delightful accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large radishes (mooli), peeled and grated
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add grated radish and stir well. Cook for 5 minutes or until the radish is slightly tender.
4. Stir in canned tomatoes and salt. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan, rice, or roti.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Radish Chutney (Spicy South Indian Dip)
This spicy Radish Chutney is a popular condiment in South India, perfect for accompanying idlis, dosas, and vadas. Its pungent flavor and creamy texture make it a delightful addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup radishes, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh coriander leaves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup yogurt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Grind coriander leaves, onion, garlic, and ginger into a smooth paste.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds; let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the chopped radish, salt, and lemon juice to the pan. Stir well.
4. Pour in the coriander paste and stir until it thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).
5. Remove from heat. If desired, add yogurt to adjust the consistency.
6. Let the chutney cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Radish Raita (Yogurt with Grated Radish)
Radishes add a delightful crunch and spicy flavor to this refreshing yogurt-based side dish, perfect for hot summer days or as a cooling accompaniment to spicy dishes. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and is ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 2 large radishes, peeled and grated
– 1 cup plain yogurt (dahi)
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder (jeera)
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the grated cucumber and radishes.
2. Add the yogurt, cumin powder, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
Radish Pickle (Indian-style Spicy Preserve)
A flavorful and spicy condiment made with radishes, this Indian-style pickle is perfect as a side dish or used as an ingredient to add zest to various recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 large radish, thinly sliced
– 1 cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons mustard oil or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced radish and salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to allow the radish to release its excess moisture.
2. Drain the radish and rinse with water. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, oil, cumin, coriander, and red chili powder. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the syrup thickens slightly.
5. Add the prepared radish slices to the syrup and stir well. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Radish Dal (Lentils Cooked with Radish)
This recipe combines the creamy texture of lentils with the spicy kick of radish, making for a delicious and nutritious meal. Radish dal is a popular dish in Indian cuisine, particularly during winter months when radishes are at their peak flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 medium radishes, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups water
– Vegetable oil or ghee, for frying
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the chopped radish, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well to combine.
5. Add the soaked lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot with rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Radish Pakora (Crispy Fried Radish Fritters)
Radish Pakora: Crispy Fried Radish Fritters
Pakoras are a popular Indian snack that can be made with a variety of ingredients, including radishes. This recipe adds a twist to the classic onion pakora by using radishes for added crunch and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 large radishes, grated
– 1/2 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the grated radish, besan, all-purpose flour, salt, baking soda, and cumin seeds.
2. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
3. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Once the oil is hot, drop tablespoon-sized portions of the batter into the oil.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Radish Thepla (Gujarati Spiced Flatbread)
A flavorful and aromatic flatbread from Gujarat, Radish Thepla is a popular snack or side dish that pairs perfectly with soups, salads, or as a accompaniment to your favorite Indian dishes. This recipe adds a twist by incorporating radishes into the dough, giving it a unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup radish greens (finely chopped)
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon carom seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 3/4 cup lukewarm water
Instructions:
1. Mix all dry ingredients in a bowl.
2. Add radish greens, ghee or oil, and lukewarm water to the flour mixture. Knead until a smooth dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Cook on a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15 minutes to make and cook the flatbreads.
Radish Poriyal (Tamil-style Stir-fry with Mustard Seeds)
This simple and delicious recipe showcases the versatility of radishes in a traditional Tamil-style stir-fry, where mustard seeds add a unique flavor and aroma. Perfect as a side dish or a quick snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup radish (thinly sliced)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1 small onion (finely chopped)
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add mustard seeds and let them sizzle for 10 seconds.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced radish. Stir well.
4. Cook for 5 minutes or until the radish is slightly tender.
5. Season with salt and turmeric powder.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Radish Kadhi (Yogurt-based Curry with Radish)
A refreshing and flavorful yogurt-based curry from Gujarat, India, made with radishes, a tangy twist on traditional kadhis.
Ingredients:
– 2 large radishes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon mustard oil or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add chopped radishes, cumin, turmeric, and salt. Stir well.
5. Mix in yogurt to combine with the radish mixture.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the radishes are tender.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve with rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Radish Upma (Savory Semolina with Radish)
A twist on the traditional Indian semolina dish, Radish Upma adds a punch of flavor and nutrients with the addition of radishes. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina (coarse)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh radish
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt to taste
– Ghee or oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the semolina in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the water in a large saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion, cumin seeds, and salt to the water. Let it simmer for 5 minutes or until the onions are translucent.
4. Add the semolina to the saucepan and stir well to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the semolina is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Stir in the chopped radish.
7. Serve hot, garnished with a dollop of ghee or oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Radish Kootu (South Indian Lentil and Vegetable Stew)
Radish Kootu is a comforting and nutritious stew that combines the earthy flavor of radishes with the creaminess of lentils. This traditional South Indian recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 medium radishes, peeled and chopped
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onion, garlic, and radishes. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Drain the soaked lentils and add them to the pan. Stir well.
5. Add water, coriander powder, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are cooked through.
6. Garnish with cilantro, if desired. Serve hot over rice or with roti.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Radish Bhaji (Maharashtrian-style Spiced Radish)
A classic Maharashtrian dish, Radish Bhaji is a flavorful and crunchy snack that’s perfect for any time of day. This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of radishes with the warmth of spices and the comfort of a crispy bhaji (fritter).
Ingredients:
– 2 large radishes, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup gram flour
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon amchur powder (dried mango powder)
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together chopped radish, gram flour, cumin seeds, coriander powder, amchur powder, and red chili powder.
2. Add salt to taste and mix well.
3. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the radish mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with the back of the spoon.
5. Fry until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Radish Dosa (Fermented Crepes with Radish Filling)
Experience the tangy flavor of fermented crepes filled with a spicy radish filling, a popular South Indian delicacy. This recipe combines the simplicity of dosas (fermented crepes) with the pungency of raw radishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fermented crepe batter (available at most Indian grocery stores or make your own)
– 2 cups grated raw radish
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup green chili peppers, finely chopped
– Salt, to taste
– Cooking oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Brush the crepe batter evenly onto the skillet.
3. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until the dosa is golden brown and crispy.
4. Meanwhile, mix together grated radish, cilantro, green chili peppers, and salt.
5. Place a cooked dosa on a flat surface and spread about 1 tablespoon of radish filling in the center.
6. Fold the dosa into a triangle or roll it up, serving with your choice of chutney.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on the number of dosas)
Radish Bhaat (Radish-flavored Rice Dish)
Radish Bhaat is a flavorful rice dish popular in Indian cuisine, where the humble radish adds a pungent and spicy kick to the usual mix of rice and spices. This recipe is a simple and delicious take on this classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 medium-sized radishes, peeled and chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook until the onions are translucent.
4. Add the chopped radishes and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they start to soften.
5. Add the rice and water mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Radish Chops (Spiced Radish Cutlets)
Discover the flavors of Indian cuisine with these crispy and flavorful radish chops, perfect as an appetizer or snack. This recipe is a great way to enjoy radishes in a new and exciting way.
Ingredients:
– 2 large radishes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together grated radish, flour, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the beaten egg to the radish mixture and mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot with your favorite chutney or raita.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover the bold flavors of Indian cuisine with these 18 spicy radish recipes. From classic dishes like Mooli Paratha (spiced flatbread) and Radish Sambar (lentil stew), to unique twists like Radish Thoran (stir-fry with coconut) and Radish Pickle (spicy preserve), there’s something for every palate. Explore traditional recipes from various regions, including North Indian curries, South Indian lentil stews, and Gujarati flatbreads. With these radish recipes, you’ll add a kick of flavor to your meals!
