Creamy and Tangy Gujarati Kadhi Recipe: A Comforting Classic

Gujarati Kadhi is a soothing, yogurt-based curry from Gujarat, India, known for its creamy texture, subtle sweetness, and tangy-spicy balance. Made with besan (gram flour) and tempered with aromatic spices, this dish is a staple in Gujarati cuisine, often paired with khichdi, puri, or undhiyu. Whether you’re seeking comfort food or a light accompaniment, this detailed Gujarati Kadhi recipe will guide you to create a bowl of warm, flavorful goodness at home. Let’s stir up this delightful dish!

Prep Time

• 10 minutes
  (Includes gathering and mixing ingredients)

Cook Time

• 20 minutes
  (Simmering the kadhi and tempering)

Total Time

• 30 minutes
  (Quick and easy comfort food!)

Detailed Nutrition Facts (For the Entire Recipe)

This recipe serves approximately 4 people (about 4 cups). Nutritional values are approximate and based on the ingredients listed below:

• Calories: 600 kcal
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 25g
  
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 70g
  
• Dietary Fiber: 5g
• Sugars: 30g (from yogurt and jaggery)
• Sodium: 1600mg (varies based on salt content)
• Cholesterol: 20mg (from yogurt)
• Vitamins and Minerals:
  
• Vitamin A: 10% of Daily Value (DV) (from yogurt and ghee)
• Vitamin C: 15% of DV (from green chilies)
• Calcium: 40% of DV (from yogurt)
• Iron: 15% of DV

Note: Values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredient brands.

Ingredients

For the Kadhi Base:

• 1 cup curd (yogurt) – preferably sour, whisked smooth
• 2 tablespoons besan (gram flour) – for thickening
• 3 cups water – to adjust consistency
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste – or finely grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon green chili paste – or 1-2 finely chopped green chilies (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon jaggery – grated (or sugar, for sweetness)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder – for color
• 1 teaspoon salt – or to taste

For the Tempering (Tadka):

• 2 tablespoons ghee – or vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds (methi) – optional, for depth
• 1/4 teaspoon hing (asafoetida)
• 8-10 curry leaves – fresh or dried
• 2-3 dried red chilies – adjust to taste
• 1-inch cinnamon stick – optional, for warmth
• 2-3 cloves – optional, for aroma

For Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves – finely chopped

Equipment Needed:

• Medium saucepan or pot
• Whisk
• Small pan for tempering

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Kadhi Base

1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup whisked curd and 2 tablespoons besan. Whisk until smooth and lump-free.
2. Add 3 cups water gradually, whisking continuously to create a thin, even mixture.
3. Stir in 1 teaspoon ginger paste, 1 teaspoon green chili paste, 1 tablespoon jaggery, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, and 1 teaspoon salt. Mix well.

Step 2: Cook the Kadhi

1. Pour the mixture into a medium saucepan and place it over medium heat.
2. Stir constantly to prevent lumps and curdling as it heats up.
3. Bring the kadhi to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the raw besan taste disappears. The consistency should be smooth and pourable, not too thick.

Step 3: Prepare the Tempering

1. Heat 2 tablespoons ghee in a small pan over medium heat.
2. Add 1 teaspoon mustard seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds (if using), 1/4 teaspoon hing, 8-10 curry leaves, 2-3 dried red chilies, 1-inch cinnamon stick, and 2-3 cloves. Sauté for 30 seconds until aromatic.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

1. Pour the hot tempering into the simmering kadhi and stir well to blend the flavors.
2. Let the kadhi simmer for another 5 minutes on low heat to absorb the tempering spices. Taste and adjust salt or jaggery if needed.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Turn off the heat and garnish with 2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves.
2. Serve hot with khichdi, steamed rice, puri, or as a side with undhiyu for a comforting Gujarati meal!

Benefits of Gujarati Kadhi

Gujarati Kadhi is a wholesome dish with plenty of goodness! Here’s why it’s a fantastic addition to your table:

1. Probiotic Power: Yogurt provides gut-friendly probiotics for better digestion.
2. Protein Source: Besan and yogurt offer plant-based protein for nourishment.
3. Low in Calories: Light and soothing, it’s perfect for a balanced diet.
4. Rich in Calcium: Yogurt boosts bone health with its calcium content.
5. Anti-Inflammatory: Spices like turmeric and cumin offer antioxidant benefits.
6. Comfort Food: Its creamy texture and tangy flavor make it a soul-soothing delight.