Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this incredible kitchari recipe! It’s one of those dishes that just warms your soul and fills your belly with love. Kitchari is a simple yet nourishing combination of rice and lentils, and it’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! Packed with protein and fiber, it’s perfect for a healthy lunch or a cozy dinner. You know, this dish has a special place in Indian culture, often enjoyed during cleansing diets or when you’re feeling under the weather. Trust me, when you make this kitchari, you’re not just feeding yourself; you’re embracing a tradition that’s been cherished for centuries. So, if you’re looking for something wholesome and comforting, this kitchari recipe is definitely the way to go!
Ingredients List
Now, let’s gather everything we need for this delightful kitchari recipe! You won’t believe how simple it is. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 cup split yellow moong dal
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Feel free to get creative! You can add some chopped vegetables like carrots or spinach for an extra nutritional boost. It’s a great way to use up whatever you have on hand and make it your own. Just remember, the beauty of kitchari lies in its simplicity, so don’t stress—just enjoy the process!
How to Prepare the Kitchari Recipe
Getting your kitchari ready is a breeze, and I promise it’s so satisfying to see it all come together! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you whip up this nourishing dish with ease.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, rinse the basmati rice and split yellow moong dal together in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. This helps remove any excess starch, making your kitchari nice and fluffy!
- Next, grab a pot and heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Let it warm up just a bit—this is where the magic begins!
- Once the ghee is hot, toss in the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds. Oh, the aroma that fills the kitchen is just divine!
- Now, sprinkle in the turmeric powder and give it a quick stir to release its flavor. It’ll brighten up the dish with its gorgeous golden hue.
- Time to add the rinsed rice and dal to the pot! Stir everything together for a minute to coat the grains with that spiced goodness.
- Pour in the 4 cups of water and add salt to taste. Bring it to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
- Let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice and dal are soft and tender. You’ll want to keep an eye on it—no one likes a burnt bottom!
- Once it’s done, remove it from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to mingle perfectly.
- Finally, fluff the kitchari gently with a fork, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. It’s ready to enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Kitchari Recipe
Let me tell you, this kitchari recipe is an absolute gem, and here’s why you’re going to adore it:
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and about 35 minutes from start to finish, you can have a wholesome meal ready to go!
- Nourishing Goodness: Packed with protein and fiber from the lentils and rice, it’s the perfect comfort food that’s also good for you.
- One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Less time cleaning means more time enjoying your meal!
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own! It’s versatile enough to suit any taste.
- Cultural Tradition: Embrace a dish that’s been loved for centuries in Indian cuisine, and enjoy its rich history with every bite.
Trust me, once you try this kitchari, it’s going to become a regular in your kitchen rotation!
Tips for Success with Your Kitchari Recipe
To make your kitchari truly shine, here are some handy tips to keep in mind! First, don’t hesitate to adjust the water based on your preferred consistency—more water for a soupier texture, or less for a thicker dish. Timing is key; keep an eye on the cooking process, and taste-test for doneness after 20 minutes. If you want to amp up the nutrition, throw in some chopped veggies like peas or bell peppers during the last 10 minutes of cooking. And remember, letting it rest after cooking allows the flavors to deepen, so be patient—it’s worth it!
Nutritional Information Section
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this lovely kitchari recipe! Please keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these values are just a general guide. Each serving (about 1 cup) typically contains:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 8g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
With all that wholesome goodness packed in, it’s no wonder kitchari is such a beloved dish! Enjoy every nourishing bite!
FAQ Section
Got questions about this delightful kitchari recipe? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear:
Can I use a different type of lentil?
Absolutely! While I love using split yellow moong dal for its mild flavor, you can substitute with red lentils or even green lentils. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary a bit!
What if I don’t have ghee?
No problem at all! You can easily replace ghee with any neutral oil like coconut oil or olive oil. It’ll still taste amazing!
How can I make this kitchari spicier?
If you’re looking to spice things up, feel free to add some chopped green chilies or a pinch of red chili powder when you add the turmeric. Adjust to your heat preference!
Can I make kitchari in advance?
Yes! Kitchari is great for meal prep. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to bring it back to life!
What should I serve with kitchari?
Kitchari is perfect on its own, but you can serve it with a side of yogurt for creaminess or a simple salad for some freshness. It’s a fantastic base for your favorite chutneys too!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftover kitchari is super simple! Just transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge, where it’ll keep well for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat. I like to add a splash of water to loosen it up a bit, as it thickens when chilled. Give it a good stir and keep an eye on it to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it for a quick option, just remember to cover it to avoid any splatters. Enjoy your comforting bowl of kitchari again soon!
Serving Suggestions for Kitchari
When it comes to enjoying your kitchari, the possibilities are endless! I love serving it alongside a cool, creamy dollop of yogurt or raita. The tanginess complements the spices beautifully! You can also pair it with a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, a side of mango chutney adds a delightful sweetness that balances the dish perfectly. And don’t forget about crispy papadums or naan to scoop up that goodness! These pairings not only enhance the meal but also make it a feast for the senses. Enjoy your delicious kitchari experience!
Print
Kitchari Recipe: 7 Reasons to Love This Comforting Dish
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and nourishing kitchari recipe made with rice and lentils.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 cup split yellow moong dal
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the rice and dal together until the water runs clear.
- In a pot, heat ghee or oil over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
- Add turmeric powder and stir for a moment.
- Add the rinsed rice and dal to the pot.
- Pour in the water and add salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Cook for about 20-25 minutes until the rice and dal are soft.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Notes
- Adjust the water for desired consistency.
- Can add vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Best served warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: kitchari recipe