Khichdi recipe

Khichdi is a traditional Indian dish known for its simplicity, nutritional value, and comforting qualities. It is a versatile one-pot meal made by cooking rice and lentils together with aromatic spices. This humble yet hearty dish has been a staple in Indian households for centuries, appreciated for its ease of preparation and ability to provide sustenance. Khichdi is not only delicious but also highly nutritious, combining the essential nutrients from rice and lentils to create a balanced meal. It is often served with accompaniments like yogurt, pickle, or papad, adding layers of flavor to this wholesome dish. Whether enjoyed as a light meal, comfort food, or a part of festive feasts, khichdi holds a special place in Indian cuisine, embodying the warmth and simplicity of home-cooked meals.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rice
• 1/2 cup split yellow lentils (moong dal)
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• 4 cups water
• Optional vegetables (such as carrots, peas, cauliflower) – chopped (about 1 cup)
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice and lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or pressure cooker, heat ghee or oil over medium heat.
3. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
4. Add turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
5. If using vegetables, add them to the pot and sauté for a couple of minutes.
6. Add the rinsed rice and lentils to the pot. Stir well to coat them with the spices.
7. Pour in the water and add salt to taste. Stir to combine.
8. If using a pressure cooker, close the lid and cook on high pressure for about 3 whistles. If using a regular pot, cover with a lid and simmer until the rice and lentils are cooked and the mixture has a porridge-like consistency, stirring occasionally. It may take around 20-25 minutes.
9. Once cooked, let the pressure release naturally if using a pressure cooker. If using a regular pot, check for doneness and adjust seasoning if necessary.
10. Serve hot garnished with fresh coriander leaves, accompanied by yogurt, pickle, or papad.

Enjoy your wholesome and comforting khichdi!

FAQs

• What is the main ingredient of khichdi?

• The main ingredients of khichdi are rice and lentils. Typically, split yellow lentils (moong dal) are used along with rice to make this wholesome dish.

• Which rice is good for khichdi?

• For making khichdi, you can use any variety of white rice such as basmati rice or regular white rice. Both types work well in creating a soft and creamy texture.

• How much water should I put in khichdi?

• The amount of water needed for khichdi depends on the desired consistency and the cooking method. As a general rule, you would use about 4 cups of water for 1 cup of rice and 1/2 cup of lentils. Adjust the amount of water based on your preference for a thicker or thinner consistency.

• Why is khichdi good for the stomach?

• Khichdi is often recommended for its soothing and easy-to-digest qualities, making it beneficial for the stomach, especially during times of illness or digestive discomfort. The combination of rice and lentils provides a good balance of carbohydrates and proteins, while the gentle spices used in khichdi aid digestion and help in calming the stomach. Additionally, khichdi is light on the digestive system, making it suitable for consumption even when one’s stomach is feeling sensitive.