Kitchari

Kitchari

4 servings
Kitchari, also called Khichdi, is a traditional Ayurvedic dish made with a mixture of yellow split mung beans, Basmati rice, and spices.

Ingredients

  • moong dal

    split mung beans

    ½ c
  • basmati rice
    ½ c
  • water
    4 c
  • ghee
    1 tbsp
  • cumin seeds
    1 tsp
  • minced fresh ginger
    ½ tsp
  • ground turmeric
    ¼ tsp
  • sea salt
    1 tsp
  • black pepper
    ¼ tsp
  • chopped fresh cilantro
    ½ c
  • slices of lime or lemon

Directions

  1. 1

    In a medium bowl, combine the rice and moong dal. Pour enough water to cover the mixture and soak for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, pour the mixture into a fine mesh strainer and rinse with cold water until it runs clear.

  2. 2

    Warm the oil or ghee on medium-low heat in a medium pot. Carefully add the cumin seeds and let them cook for about a minute until the seeds start to brown and become fragrant. Add the ginger and ground turmeric.

  3. 3

    Add the rice and dal mixture into the pot. Season with sea salt and black pepper. Stir and add the 4 cups of water.

  4. 4

    Increase the heat to medium-high to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Turn the heat down immediately to a gentle simmer. Simmer for 30 minutes, uncovered, stirring occasionally until you get a porridge-like consistency. It should be soft and creamy.

  5. 5

    Taste the kitchari to make sure the texture is soft.  If not, you may need to let it cook a little longer. Turn off the heat and adjust the seasoning, if needed, and stir again. Serve or cool down completely and refrigerate in a sealed container for 3 days.

Kitchari

Kitchari

40 min4 servings210 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving a deeply nourishing meal that offers both comfort and balance? This Kitchari recipe, a cornerstone of Ayurvedic tradition, brings together simple ingredients for a profoundly satisfying experience. It's an ideal dish for those seeking a gentle reset or a wholesome main dish any day of the week.

This Kitchari truly shines by harmonizing the subtle, earthy flavors of yellow split mung beans (moong dal) and fluffy Basmati rice with a thoughtful blend of aromatic spices. The gentle warmth from cumin, fresh ginger, and turmeric creates a uniquely soothing flavor profile, while the addition of sea salt and black pepper ensures every spoonful is perfectly balanced. This combination of ingredients is designed to be both delicious and easy to digest.

When you prepare this Kitchari, you can expect a wonderfully creamy yet distinct texture, where the tender moong dal and soft Basmati rice meld together beautifully. The dish carries a comforting warmth from the spices, offering an earthy, savory taste subtly brightened by the fresh minced ginger and a final flourish of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime or lemon. It’s a naturally hearty and balanced meal, providing 210 calories per serving, that feels restorative with every bite.

While this Kitchari is delightful in its traditional form, it’s also wonderfully adaptable to your pantry or preferences. You could easily enhance it by stirring in finely chopped seasonal vegetables like carrots or spinach for added nutrients, though this recipe focuses on the foundational rice and bean blend. If you don't have fresh cilantro, a sprinkle of dried parsley can provide a green finish, or simply omit it. For those looking to adjust the richness, an alternative cooking oil could be used in place of ghee.

Serve this Kitchari warm, garnished generously with the suggested fresh cilantro and a vibrant slice of lime or lemon. It makes for an inviting and wholesome main dish, perfect for a quiet evening at home or as part of a wellness-focused meal plan.

Frequently Asked Questions