Easy Kichdi Recipe | Indian Comfort Food (With Nutrition Info)

Khichdi is a nourishing one-pot dish made with rice and lentils, loved for its simplicity and health benefits. This traditional Indian comfort food is ideal for all ages—especially when you’re looking for something easy to digest, gluten-free, and satisfying.

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✅ Why You’ll Love This Khichdi

• High in plant-based protein and fiber

• Naturally gluten-free

• Light, wholesome, and filling

• Customizable with vegetables and spices

• Great for lunch, dinner, or recovery meals

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🍚 Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

Core Ingredients:

• ½ cup basmati rice

• ½ cup yellow moong dal (split)

• 3.5 to 4 cups water

Tempering:

• 2 tbsp ghee (or oil for a vegan version)

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• A pinch of hing (asafoetida)

• 1 tsp grated ginger

• 1 green chili, chopped (optional)

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• Salt to taste

Optional Vegetables:

• 1 small carrot, chopped

• 1 small potato, chopped

• ¼ cup peas

• A few beans, chopped

👩‍🍳 How to Make Khichdi – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Rinse and soak
Start by rinsing the rice and moong dal thoroughly. Soak them for 15–20 minutes to reduce cooking time and improve texture.

Step 2: Prepare the tempering
Meanwhile, heat ghee in a pressure cooker or heavy pot. Once hot, add cumin seeds. After they crackle, mix in hing, grated ginger, and green chili. Sauté briefly until fragrant.

Step 3: Add vegetables and spices
Next, stir in the chopped vegetables if you’re using them. Cook for 2–3 minutes, then sprinkle turmeric and salt.

Step 4: Cook the khichdi
Now, drain the soaked rice and dal, then add them to the pot. Pour in the water and stir well.

• If using a pressure cooker, cook for 3–4 whistles on medium heat.

• For an open pot, simmer gently for 30–40 minutes until soft and porridge-like.

Step 5: Serve hot
Finally, give the khichdi a gentle mix and serve warm. A dollop of ghee on top enhances the flavor. Pair it with curd, pickle, or papad for a complete meal.

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🍴 Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approx.)

Tip: Adding vegetables boosts fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

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🧈 Variations You Can Try

• Masala Khichdi: Include garlic, tomatoes, and a pinch of garam masala.

• South Indian Pongal Style: Use black pepper, curry leaves, and ginger.

• Vegan Version: Replace ghee with coconut or sunflower oil.