Taste of Home Favorite.. Khichdi Recipe

 Soulful Simplicity – A Home Favorite Khichri Recipe

There’s something about Khichri that instantly brings comfort – a one-pot meal that warms the heart as much as it fills the stomach. Simple, nourishing, and deeply rooted in tradition, Khichri is the quintessential Indian comfort food. Whether you're feeling under the weather, seeking something light, or just want to relish an easy, home-cooked dish, this Khichri recipe is your go-to.

Why We Love Khichri

Khichri (also spelled Khichdi or Khichuri) is a blend of rice and lentils, simmered to a creamy, porridge-like consistency. It's not just food—it’s therapy. Every household has its own version, passed down with tweaks and love. It’s:

• Nutritious – Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

• Easy on the stomach – Perfect for detox or recovery meals.

• Customizable – Add veggies, spices, or serve plain.

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Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

Main Base:

• ½ cup rice (basmati or any short grain)

• ½ cup split yellow moong dal (or toor dal)

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 inch ginger (grated or minced)

• 1 green chili (optional)

• ¼ tsp turmeric

• Salt to taste

• 4–5 cups water (adjust for consistency)

Vegetables (optional but recommended):

• 1 small potato (cubed)

• ½ cup carrots (chopped)

• ½ cup green peas

• ½ cup spinach (optional)

Tempering (Tadka):

• 1–2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)

• ½ tsp cumin seeds

• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)

• 2–3 garlic cloves (sliced)

• Dry red chili (optional)

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Preparation Steps

1. Prep the Dal and Rice

• Wash rice and dal together until water runs clear. Soak for 15–20 minutes (optional but helps soften).

2. Cook the Base

• In a pressure cooker or deep pot, heat 1 tsp ghee.

• Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, ginger, and green chili. Sauté briefly.

• Add the soaked rice and dal. Mix in turmeric and salt.

• Add chopped vegetables if using.

• Pour in water, bring to a boil, then cover and pressure cook for 3 whistles (or simmer in a pot for ~30–40 mins until soft and mushy).

3. Tadka Time

• In a small pan, heat ghee for tempering.

• Add cumin seeds, garlic, asafoetida, and dry red chili. Let it sizzle and turn golden.

• Pour this over the cooked Khichri just before serving.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with a dollop of ghee, curd or raita, and papad or pickle on the side.

• For an added touch, garnish with fresh coriander or a squeeze of lemon juice.

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Tips & Variations

• Use broken wheat (daliya) or millets instead of rice for a healthier twist.

• Make it richer by adding a spoon of ghee while cooking.

• For kids or sick days, make it plain and watery—just rice, moong dal, and turmeric.

Final Thoughts

Khichri isn’t just food— it’s the aroma wafting from your childhood kitchen or cozy evening, this humble dish wraps you in a warm hug of flavor and nostalgia.

So next time you crave something warm, simple, and satisfying—stir up a pot of Khichri.