Looking for a light, refreshing, and nourishing dish? Raw Papaya or Carrot Kosambari is a South Indian lentil salad that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful. Made with soaked moong dal (split yellow lentils), grated vegetables, and a simple tempering, this dish is often served during festivals but deserves a place in your everyday healthy eating routine too.
Why You’ll Love Kosambari
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It’s raw, fresh, and enzyme-rich, which aids digestion.
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High in plant-based protein from moong dal.
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Naturally gluten-free, low-fat, and full of fiber.
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Super quick to prepare no cooking required (except for optional tempering).
Ingredients
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½ cup split yellow moong dal (soaked for 1–2 hours)
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1 cup grated raw papaya or carrot
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1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
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1 tbsp chopped fresh coriander
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Juice of ½ lemon
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Salt to taste
Optional Tempering
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1 tsp oil
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½ tsp mustard seeds
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A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
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Few curry leaves
Instructions
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Soak lentils Wash and soak moong dal in water for 1–2 hours until soft but not mushy. Drain well.
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Combine ingredients In a bowl, mix soaked moong dal, grated papaya or carrot, green chili, coriander, salt, and lemon juice.
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Tempering (optional) Heat oil, add mustard seeds, curry leaves, and hing. Let it splutter and pour over the salad.
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Mix and serve Stir everything gently. Serve immediately as a light snack or side dish.
Health Benefits
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Moong dal offers high-quality plant protein and is easy on digestion.
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Raw papaya is packed with digestive enzymes like papain, and carrot adds beta-carotene and fiber.
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Low in calories and carbs great for weight loss and detox diets.
Serving Suggestions
Serve kosambari chilled or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with South Indian thalis, rice dishes, or even on its own as a light evening snack or pre-meal salad.
Raw Papaya or Carrot Kosambari is a true example of food that’s simple, quick, and incredibly healthy. With minimal ingredients and no cooking involved, it’s a perfect addition to your clean-eating meal plan. Traditional, nourishing, and refreshingly modern all at once!
