Horse gram, also known as Muthira, is a small lentil with a unique flavour and impressive nutritional profile. Commonly used in Southern India, this humble legume is a staple in various dishes such as dals, soups, and chutneys.

Despite its tiny size, horse gram is packed with nutrients, earning it a reputation as a powerhouse of health benefits.

Traditionally used as feed for horses—hence the name 'horse gram'—elders often say that its rich nutrient content gives one strength comparable to that of a horse.

Rich in nutrients

Horse gram is a storehouse of protein and rich in dietary fibre, iron, and calcium. It is especially valued for its potential health benefits, such as helping with blood sugar control. With its high protein and fibre content, it is an essential addition to a balanced diet.

A star in Konkani cuisine

In Konkani cuisine, horse gram holds a special place and is commonly known as Kulithu. It is used in a variety of traditional recipes, much loved across the community.

One popular dish is ‘Koddel’, a curry prepared by combining boiled horse gram with tender jackfruit or Chinese potato and a ground coconut masala. Another favourite is Sarshi, a simple yet flavourful curry made by boiling horse gram with extra broth and tempering it with fried garlic and dried chillies. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also deeply comforting.

Horse gram is also used to make a special variety of idli. In this recipe, horse gram is ground along with urad dal in a specific proportion to create soft, flavourful idlis.

Muthira Khadi: A traditional treat

Muthira Khadi is another dish made using horse gram. Though the name sound similar to Punjabi Khadi, the two are entirely different.

Traditionally, horse gram was cooked in slightly larger quantities, especially to prepare food for cattle. The leftover broth from cooking the gram was used to make Muthira Khadi. Chopped cucumber is added to the broth to create a light curry that is typically served over rice.

The cooked lentils can be used to make Upperi, a dish that is both nutritious and delicious.

Muthira Upperi (Horse gram stir-fry)

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cooked horse gram (Muthira)
  • 1½ tsp mustard seeds
  • 4 to 6 dried red chillies
  • 2 sprigs curry leaves
  • 1 tsp hing (asafoetida)
  • 3 tsp coconut oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • ½ cup freshly grated coconut

Method:

  • Heat coconut oil in a pan over medium flame.
  • Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
  • Add the dried red chillies and curry leaves, sauté for a few seconds.
  • Add the cooked horse gram to the pan and mix well.
  • Sprinkle in the hing and salt. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavours to combine.
  • Once the mixture is well-heated and slightly dry, add the grated coconut.
  • Stir well for another 2–3 minutes until everything is combined.
  • Serve hot as a side dish with rice or enjoy on its own.