Khichdi Recipe (Khicede) – the best nutritional food in India
Khichdi (also spelled as “Khichadi” or “Khicede”) is a popular and comforting one-pot dish from the Indian subcontinent. It is made by cooking rice and lentils together with various spices and vegetables.
Here’s a simple Khichdi recipe :
Ingredients For Khichdi Recipe
- 1 cup rice
- 1/2 cup split yellow moong dal (lentils)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 potato, diced
- 1/2 cup peas
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 green chilies, slit (adjust according to your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Preparation:
- Rinse the rice and lentils separately under running water until the water runs clear. Soak them in water for about 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Heat ghee or oil in a pressure cooker or a deep pot over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.
- Add the diced carrot, potato, and peas. Stir and cook for a few minutes.
- Add the soaked and drained rice and lentils to the pot. Mix well with the vegetables.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder (if using), garam masala, and salt. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Pour in enough water (about 4 cups) to cover the rice and lentils. Stir well and bring it to a boil.
- If using a pressure cooker, close the lid and cook on medium heat for about 3-4 whistles. If using a pot, cover it with a lid and cook on low heat until the rice and lentils are cooked and tender (approximately 30-40 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the Khichdi is cooked, let it sit for a few minutes before opening the pressure cooker or pot.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot Khichdi with a dollop of ghee, yogurt, or pickle. You can also squeeze some lemon juice on top for an added tangy flavor.
Feel free to adjust the spices and vegetables according to your preference. Khichdi is often served with yogurt or buttermilk to balance the flavors.
Nutritional Value of Khichdi Recipe
Khichdi, also known as Khicede, is a popular Indian dish made by cooking rice and lentils together. It is a nutritious and wholesome meal that provides a balanced combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential nutrients. The specific nutritional value of Khicede can vary based on the ingredients used and the cooking method. Here is a general overview of the nutritional components of Khichdi Recipe:
- Carbohydrates: Khicede is primarily made using rice and lentils, both of which are good sources of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for the body.
- Protein: Lentils used in Khicede are rich in protein, making them a valuable source of plant-based protein. Protein is essential for tissue repair, muscle building, and various metabolic functions.
- Dietary Fiber: Both rice and lentils contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain bowel regularity. The fiber content in Khicede can vary based on the ratio of rice to lentils and the specific types of lentils used.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Khicede can provide various vitamins and minerals depending on the ingredients used. Lentils are a good source of iron, folate, and potassium, while rice can provide B vitamins and some minerals. The specific nutrient content can vary based on the types of lentils and rice used.
- Healthy Fats: Some versions of Khicede may include the use of ghee (clarified butter) or other cooking oils. While these additions can contribute to the overall fat content, they can also provide essential fatty acids and enhance the flavor of the dish.
It’s important to note that the nutritional value of Khicede can vary depending on the specific recipe, the ratios of ingredients, and any additional spices or toppings added.
