Kadhi Pakora Rice

Kadhi Pakora Rice is a delightful Indian dish featuring crispy lentil dumplings (pakoras) submerged in a tangy yogurt-based curry, served over fluffy basmati rice. This high-protein meal is not only comforting but also packed with flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 1 cup
• Water - 2 cups
• Yogurt - 1 cup
• Besan (gram flour) - 1/2 cup
• Spinach (finely chopped) - 1/2 cup
• Onion (finely chopped) - 1 small
• Ginger (grated) - 1 tsp
• Green chili (finely chopped) - 1 small
• Turmeric powder - 1/2 tsp
• Red chili powder - 1/2 tsp
• Cumin seeds - 1/2 tsp
• Mustard seeds - 1/2 tsp
• Salt - to taste
• Oil - for frying
• Cilantro (for garnish) - a handful

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 20 minutes.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine besan, chopped spinach, onion, grated ginger, green chili, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt to make the pakora batter.
3. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Take spoonfuls of the batter and drop them into the hot oil to fry until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. In a separate saucepan, heat a tablespoon of oil and add cumin and mustard seeds. Once they splutter, add the yogurt, stirring continuously to prevent curdling.
5. Add water gradually while mixing to achieve a smooth consistency. Stir in salt, turmeric, and red chili powder, and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, cook the soaked rice in a pot with 2 cups of water, bringing it to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the water is absorbed.
7. Once the yogurt curry is ready, gently add the fried pakoras and let them soak in the gravy for 5 minutes.
8. Serve the kadhi with a generous helping of rice and garnish with chopped cilantro.

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 20 g
• Carbs: 80 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Cholesterol: 5 mg
• Total Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein, supporting muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.

Tags