Masala Khichdi

Masala Khichdi is a comforting one-pot dish made with rice, lentils, and aromatic spices, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and nutrition. This wholesome meal is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for a healthy lunch.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 100 grams
• Moong dal (split yellow lentils) - 50 grams
• Ghee - 2 tablespoons
• Cumin seeds - 1 teaspoon
• Mustard seeds - 1/2 teaspoon
• Turmeric powder - 1/2 teaspoon
• Ginger (grated) - 1 teaspoon
• Green chili (slit) - 1 whole
• Carrot (chopped) - 1 small
• Green peas (fresh or frozen) - 50 grams
• Salt - to taste
• Water - 500 milliliters
• Coriander leaves (chopped) - for garnish

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice and moong dal together under running water until the water runs clear. Soak them in water for 15 minutes, then drain.
2. In a pressure cooker or a heavy-bottomed pot, heat ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds; let them splutter.
3. Add grated ginger and slit green chili to the pot, sautéing for about a minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the chopped carrot and green peas, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.
5. Add the drained rice and dal to the pot along with turmeric powder and salt. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
6. Pour in the water and stir. If using a pressure cooker, cover and cook for 2 whistles; if using a pot, cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice and dal are fully cooked.
7. Once done, let the pressure release naturally (if using a pressure cooker), or remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes (if using a pot).
8. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with yogurt or pickle.

Nutrition

• Calories: 360
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein and fiber, promoting healthy digestion.
• Provides essential vitamins and minerals from lentils and vegetables.

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