Simple and Nourishing Khichdi Recipe: A Gujarati Comfort Staple

Khichdi is a classic Gujarati one-pot dish made from rice and lentils, seasoned with mild spices and often enriched with ghee. Known as the ultimate comfort food across India, this wholesome meal is light on the stomach yet deeply satisfying, often paired with kadhi or yogurt. Whether you’re seeking a quick dinner or a soothing remedy, this detailed Khichdi recipe will guide you to create this nourishing dish at home. Let’s cook up some cozy goodness!

Prep Time

• 10 minutes
  (Includes rinsing and gathering ingredients)

Cook Time

• 25 minutes
  (Cooking the khichdi)

Total Time

• 35 minutes
  (A fast and flavorful comfort meal!)

Detailed Nutrition Facts (For the Entire Recipe)

This recipe serves approximately 4 people (about 4-5 cups). Nutritional values are approximate and based on the ingredients listed below:

• Calories: 900 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 25g
  
• Saturated Fat: 10g (from ghee)
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 140g
  
• Dietary Fiber: 15g
• Sugars: 2g (from natural sources)
• Sodium: 1600mg (varies based on salt content)
• Cholesterol: 30mg (from ghee)
• Vitamins and Minerals:
  
• Vitamin A: 10% of Daily Value (DV) (from ghee)
• Vitamin C: 5% of DV (from optional veggies)
• Iron: 25% of DV
• Magnesium: 20% of DV

Note: Values may vary based on portion size, ghee usage, and optional ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Khichdi:

• 1/2 cup rice – short-grain or basmati, rinsed
• 1/2 cup moong dal (split yellow lentils) – rinsed (or toor dal)
• 4 cups water – for cooking
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste – or finely grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder – for color
• 1 teaspoon salt – or to taste
• 1 tablespoon ghee – for richness
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds – for flavor
• 1/4 teaspoon hing (asafoetida) – enhances digestion

Optional Additions:

• 1 small potato – peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup green peas – fresh or frozen
• 1 teaspoon green chili paste – or 1 chopped green chili (adjust to taste)

For the Tempering (Tadka):

• 2 tablespoons ghee – or oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1-2 dried red chilies – optional, for heat
• 5-6 curry leaves – fresh or dried

For Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves – finely chopped

For Serving (Optional):

• Gujarati kadhi, yogurt, papad, or pickle

Equipment Needed:

• Pressure cooker or pot
• Small pan for tempering
• Spatula or ladle

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. Rinse 1/2 cup rice and 1/2 cup moong dal together under running water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. If using vegetables, peel and dice the potato and measure out the green peas.

Step 2: Cook the Khichdi

1. Heat 1 tablespoon ghee in a pressure cooker or pot over medium heat.
2. Add 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds and 1/4 teaspoon hing. Let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
3. Add 1 teaspoon ginger paste (and green chili paste, if using) and sauté for 30 seconds until aromatic.
4. Add the rinsed rice and dal, along with diced potato and peas (if using). Stir for 1-2 minutes to coat in ghee.
5. Add 4 cups water, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, and 1 teaspoon salt. Stir well.
6. Pressure cook for 3-4 whistles on medium heat (about 10-12 minutes), or cook in a pot for 20-25 minutes until the rice and dal are soft and mushy. (Adjust water for a thicker or thinner consistency.)

Step 3: Check and Adjust

1. Once cooked, release the pressure naturally (if using a cooker) and open the lid. Stir the khichdi – it should have a porridge-like consistency. Add more hot water if it’s too thick, and simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Tempering

1. Heat 2 tablespoons ghee in a small pan over medium heat.
2. Add 1 teaspoon cumin seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add 1-2 dried red chilies and 5-6 curry leaves. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Pour the hot tempering over the cooked khichdi and mix gently to blend the flavors.
2. Garnish with 2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander leaves.
3. Serve hot with a generous dollop of ghee, alongside Gujarati kadhi, yogurt, papad, or pickle for a complete meal!

Benefits of Khichdi

Khichdi is a nourishing dish with a host of health perks! Here’s why it’s a go-to comfort food:

1. Protein Power: Moong dal provides plant-based protein for strength and repair.
2. Easy Digestion: Light and gentle on the stomach, ideal for all ages.
3. Fiber-Rich: Lentils and rice support gut health with dietary fiber.
4. Balanced Nutrition: Combines carbs, protein, and fats for sustained energy.
5. Healing Properties: Often recommended during illness for its simplicity and nutrients.
6. Customizable: Add veggies or spices to boost flavor and vitamins!