Kitchari / Khichdi (Instant Pot)
Kitchari or khichdi is a hearty and nourishing dish that is rich in flavor and easy to prepare. Made with a blend of rice, lentils, and warming spices, this gluten-free meal can be cooked in just 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Servings: 6
Calories: 283kcal
Ingredients
- 1 cup Basmati rice
- 1 cup moong dal
- 2 tablespoon ghee (use store-bought or homemade ghee)
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- ½ teaspoon fennel seeds
- ¼ teaspoon asafetida (hing)
- ½ inch ginger minced or grated
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1½-2 teaspoon salt adjust as per taste
- 7 cups water
- ¼ cup cilantro
Optional ingredients
- 2 cups vegetables
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
Instructions
- Wash the rice and moong dal thoroughly in running water 2 to 3 times. Drain all the water and soak it in fresh water for 5-10 minutes.
- Set the Instant Pot to saute mode and add the ghee.
- Once it heats, add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Next, add cumin seeds, fennel seeds, hing, and ginger. Saute for a few seconds.
- Drain all the water from the rice and dal. Add it to Instant Pot along with turmeric powder and salt.
- Add the water and give it a good mix.
- Secure the lid and pressure cook for 6 minutes. Do a natural pressure release.
- Open the lid and add cilantro. Mix well and serve warm.
Video
Notes
Rinse the rice and dal thoroughly before using them. You can also soak them for 10-15 minutes if you have time, but this is an optional step.
An authentic khichari is made using ghee. However, you can replace ghee with coconut oil or olive oil to make a vegan kitchari.
Khichdi is best served fresh and hot with a dollop of ghee on top.
Nutrition
Calories: 283kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 13mg | Sodium: 608mg | Potassium: 54mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 116IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 38mg | Iron: 2mg