Authentic Carrot Salad Recipe – Indian Style with Mustard Seeds & Chilies

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Carrot Salad Recipe – Indian Style with Mustard Seeds & Chilies

Introduction

Oh, this carrot salad! It’s one of those recipes that just feels like home. Simple, fresh, and bursting with flavour – it’s a staple in my family, especially during warmer months. I first made this when I was trying to find a quick, healthy side dish to go with our lunch, and it’s been a hit ever since. It’s a little different from your average carrot salad, thanks to the Indian-inspired tempering with mustard seeds and a hint of hing. Trust me, it makes all the difference!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Indian-style carrot salad is seriously easy to make – ready in under 15 minutes! It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the natural sweetness of carrots with a delightful spicy, tangy kick. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. It’s perfect as a light snack, a side dish with your meals, or even a refreshing addition to a picnic.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious salad:

• 2 large or 4 small carrots (about 200-250g)
• As per taste salt (start with ¼ tsp and adjust)
• 1-2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
• As per preference chopped green chilies (1-2, depending on your spice tolerance)
• 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
• 1 tsp oil (mustard oil is traditional, but vegetable oil works too)
• ½ tsp mustard seeds
• A tiny pinch of hing (asafoetida)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients – a few little tips to make sure your salad turns out just right!

Carrots: Choosing the Right Variety
I prefer using regular orange carrots for this salad, but you can definitely experiment! Red or yellow carrots will add a beautiful colour variation. Look for firm, crisp carrots – they’ll have the best texture.

Lemon Juice: Fresh vs. Bottled
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always best for that bright, zesty flavour. But if you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice will work too. Just be mindful that it might have a slightly different taste.

Green Chilies: Heat Level & Varieties
Green chilies add a lovely kick! Serrano or Thai green chilies are quite spicy, while milder varieties like jalapeños can be used if you prefer less heat. Remember to remove the seeds for a milder flavour.

Coriander Leaves: Freshness is Key
Fresh coriander leaves (cilantro) are essential for that authentic Indian flavour. Make sure they’re bright green and fragrant.

Hing (Asafoetida): A Unique Indian Flavor – Benefits & Substitutes
Hing has a pungent aroma in its raw form, but it transforms into a savoury, umami flavour when cooked. It’s known for aiding digestion too! If you can’t find hing, a tiny pinch of garlic powder can be used as a substitute, but it won’t be quite the same.

Mustard Seeds: Black vs. Yellow – Flavor Profiles
I usually use black mustard seeds for this recipe, as they have a more robust flavour. Yellow mustard seeds are milder.

Oil: Regional Oil Preferences (e.g., Mustard Oil, Vegetable Oil)
Traditionally, this salad is made with mustard oil, which adds a distinctive pungent flavour. However, vegetable oil, sunflower oil, or even olive oil can be used if you prefer a milder taste.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s super simple, I promise.

1. First, grate your carrots. I like to use a box grater for a nice, even texture. Transfer the grated carrots to a mixing bowl.
2. Add salt, lemon juice, and chopped green chilies to the carrots. Don’t be shy with the lemon juice – it really brightens up the flavours!
3. Now, add the chopped coriander leaves and give everything a good mix.
4. Time for the tempering! Heat the oil in a small pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the mustard seeds. Let them splutter – this is important!
5. As soon as the mustard seeds start to pop, add a tiny pinch of hing. Turn off the heat immediately – hing can burn quickly.
6. Pour the hot tempering over the carrot mixture. Be careful, it will sizzle! Stir well to combine all the flavours.
7. Let the salad rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavours to meld together beautifully. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the resting time! It really makes a difference in the flavour.
• Adjust the amount of green chilies and lemon juice to your liking.
• For a more intense flavour, lightly massage the carrots with salt and lemon juice before adding the other ingredients.

Variations

• Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is naturally vegan!
• Spice Level Adjustment: For a milder salad, use less green chili or remove the seeds. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red chili powder.
• Festival Adaptation: This salad is a wonderful side dish for Makar Sankranti (kite flying festival) in India. It complements the heavier dishes perfectly.
• My friend, Priya, loves adding a sprinkle of roasted cumin powder to hers – it’s delicious!

Gluten-Free Confirmation

Yes, this carrot salad is naturally gluten-free!

Serving Suggestions

This salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as:

• A side dish with dal and rice.
• A refreshing snack on a hot day.
• Part of a larger Indian thali (platter).
• A colourful addition to a picnic or potluck.

Storage Instructions

You can store leftover carrot salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The flavours might mellow slightly over time, but it will still be delicious!

FAQs

What type of carrots are best for this salad?

Regular orange carrots are great, but feel free to experiment with red or yellow ones for a colourful twist!

Can I make this salad ahead of time? How long will it keep?

Yes, you can make it a few hours ahead. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it will keep in the fridge for 2-3 days.

What can I substitute for hing (asafoetida)?

A tiny pinch of garlic powder can be used, but it won’t have the same unique flavour.

Can I use a different type of chili?

Absolutely! Jalapeños are a milder option, while Serrano or Thai green chilies will add more heat.

Is this salad suitable for a potluck or picnic?

Definitely! It travels well and is always a crowd-pleaser.

How can I adjust the tanginess of the salad?

Simply add more or less lemon juice to suit your taste.

What are the health benefits of this carrot salad?

Carrots are packed with Vitamin A and fiber, and this salad is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy them! Plus, the mustard seeds and hing offer additional health benefits.