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Khichdi (The Original Indian Comfort Food)

Khichdi (The Original Indian Comfort Food)

The classic—perfect for sick days, lazy nights, or when you need something warm and nourishing. Ready in under 30 minutes and incredibly versatile . Add mixed vegetables for a "Masala Khichdi" twist 
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Indian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup basmati or short-grain rice
  • ½ cup yellow moong dal
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 medium tomato chopped
  • 1 small carrot diced
  • 1 small potato diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1- inch piece fresh ginger grated
  • 1 green chili finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon ghee
  • 4½ cups water or more for a softer consistency
  • ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon asafoetida hing, optional
  • 2 tablespoons fresh coriander chopped

Method
 

Rinse the rice and moong dal together several times until the water runs mostly clear, then drain. Heat the ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker over medium heat and add the cumin seeds and asafoetida. Once fragrant, add the onion, ginger, garlic, and green chili and sauté until the onion becomes soft. Add the tomato, carrot, potato, turmeric, black pepper, and salt, stirring for 2–3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the rinsed rice and dal along with the water and stir everything together. Bring to a gentle boil, then cover and simmer for about 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice and dal become very soft and creamy. Add a little extra hot water if needed to reach your preferred consistency. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve warm with a spoonful of ghee, yogurt, or pickle.

    Video

    Notes

    Use extra water for truly comforting khichdi. The best khichdi should be soft, creamy, and spoonable rather than dry and grainy. Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking—the rice and dal will continue absorbing liquid and become even more comforting.