Moong Dal Khichdi – Comforting One-Pot Meal
Moong Dal Khichdi is a simple, nutritious, and comforting one-pot meal made with rice and moong dal (yellow split gram). It is a staple in many Indian households, especially during times of illness, fasting, or when a light, easy-to-digest meal is desired. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers a balanced combination of carbohydrates and proteins, making it a wholesome choice for lunch or dinner.
Why This Recipe Works
- Easy to Digest: Moong dal is light on the stomach, making it ideal for those with digestive issues or during recovery.
- Quick Preparation: With minimal ingredients and steps, it’s perfect for busy days or when you need a quick meal.
- Customizable: You can add vegetables or spices to suit your taste and nutritional needs.
- One-Pot Cooking: Reduces cleanup time and simplifies the cooking process.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | ½ cup |
| Moong Dal | ½ cup |
| Ghee | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric Powder | ¼ tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp (or to taste) |
| Water | 3¼ cups |
Method – Step by Step
1. Rinse and Soak
- In a large bowl, rinse the rice and moong dal thoroughly. Soak them together for about 10 minutes.
2. Sauté in Ghee
- In a pressure cooker, heat 1 tsp of ghee over medium heat.
- Add the soaked rice and moong dal mixture. Sauté for 2 minutes until the mixture turns aromatic.
3. Add Spices and Water
- Add ¼ tsp of turmeric powder and ½ tsp of salt to the cooker.
- Pour in 3¼ cups of water and mix well.
4. Pressure Cook
- Cover the pressure cooker with its lid.
- Cook on medium heat for 5 minutes or until you hear one whistle.
- Turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally.
5. Serve
- Open the cooker, stir the khichdi gently to mix.
- Serve hot, optionally with a dollop of ghee, pickle, or yogurt on the side.
Tips & Variations
- Vegetable Addition: You can add chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach to make the khichdi more nutritious. Add them along with the rice and moong dal before sautéing.
- Spice It Up: For a spicier version, add a pinch of black pepper or a chopped green chili during the sautéing step.
- Consistency: Adjust the water quantity to achieve your desired consistency. For a porridge-like texture, add more water.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair the khichdi with a side of pickle, yogurt, or papad for added flavor.
Final Thoughts
Moong Dal Khichdi is a versatile and wholesome recipe that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Its simplicity and nutritional benefits make it a go-to dish for many. Whether you’re looking for a light meal, recovering from an illness, or simply craving comfort food, this khichdi is sure to satisfy your needs.
