Traditional Mung Bean Soup (Printable)

Comforting bowl of simmered mung beans with onions, tomatoes, and warming spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Legumes

01 - 1 cup dried mung beans, rinsed and soaked for 4 hours or overnight

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 inch piece fresh ginger, grated
05 - 1 medium carrot, diced
06 - 1 medium tomato, chopped
07 - 1 small green chili, finely chopped (optional)

→ Spices & Seasonings

08 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
09 - 1 teaspoon ground coriander
10 - 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
12 - 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
13 - 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing), optional
14 - 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

→ Liquids

15 - 6 cups water or vegetable broth

→ Garnishes

16 - 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
17 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

# How to Make It:

01 - Drain and rinse the soaked mung beans thoroughly under cold water.
02 - In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Add onion, garlic, and ginger to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, approximately 3 minutes.
04 - Stir in carrots, tomato, green chili if using, cumin, coriander, turmeric, black pepper, and asafoetida. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
05 - Add mung beans and pour in water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes until mung beans are tender and soup thickens.
06 - Add salt and adjust seasoning as needed for desired flavor balance.
07 - Stir in lemon juice and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Rich in plant-based protein and fiber.
  • Naturally vegan and gluten-free.
  • Simple preparation with easy-to-find ingredients.
  • Perfect for meal prep and cold-weather comfort.
02 -
  • Soak the beans for at least 4 hours to ensure they cook quickly and are easier to digest.
  • The lemon juice added at the end is vital for brightening the flavor of the earthy legumes.
  • Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens like mustard and hidden wheat in asafoetida.
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