Biryani Khichdi

Biryani Khichdi is a comforting and flavorful Indian dish that combines the richness of biryani spices with the wholesome goodness of khichdi, making it a perfect gluten-free lunch option. This dish features fragrant basmati rice and lentils, cooked together with aromatic spices, vegetables, and a touch of ghee for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 100 grams
• Moong dal (yellow split lentils) - 50 grams
• Ghee - 2 tablespoons
• Cumin seeds - 1 teaspoon
• Bay leaf - 1
• Cloves - 2
• Green cardamom - 2
• Cinnamon stick - 1 small piece
• Onion (finely chopped) - 1 medium
• Garlic (minced) - 2 cloves
• Ginger (grated) - 1 teaspoon
• Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans) - 100 grams
• Turmeric powder - 1/2 teaspoon
• Red chili powder - 1/2 teaspoon
• Garam masala - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Water - 400 ml
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish) - a handful

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice and moong dal under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak them together in water for about 30 minutes, then drain.
2. In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cloves, green cardamom, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown. Then add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until aromatic.
4. Stir in the mixed vegetables, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
5. Add the soaked and drained rice and moong dal to the pot, stirring well to combine with the spices and vegetables.
6. Pour in 400 ml of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice and lentils are cooked and the water is absorbed.
7. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. Fluff the khichdi with a fork and sprinkle garam masala over the top.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 10 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Water: 0.4 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein and fiber due to the combination of lentils and rice.
• Packed with vitamins and minerals from the mixed vegetables.

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