Khichuri with Vegetables
A comforting and wholesome one-pot meal made with rice, lentils, and an assortment of seasonal vegetables, seasoned with aromatic spices. It's a staple comfort food, often enjoyed during rainy days or as a light meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 cup Basmati rice
- 0.5 cup Mixed lentils (e.g., moong dal, masoor dal)
- 2 cups Mixed vegetables(e.g., potatoes, carrots, peas, cauliflower, beans, chopped)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 1 tbsp Ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 0.5 tsp Coriander powder
- 0.5 tsp Garam masala powder
- 2 pieces Green chilies(slit)
- 1 piece Bay leaves
- 1 inch Cinnamon stick
- 2 pieces Cardamom pods
- 2 pieces Cloves
- 2 tbsp Ghee or oil
- 4 cups Water(or as needed)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the rice and lentils thoroughly until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- 2
Heat ghee or oil in a pot or pressure cooker over medium heat. Add bay leaves, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- 3
Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute.
- 4
Add turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Stir well and cook for 30 seconds.
- 5
Add the mixed vegetables and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
- 6
Add the rinsed rice and lentils to the pot. Stir to coat everything with the spices and vegetables.
- 7
Pour in the water and add the slit green chilies. Bring to a boil.
- 8
If using a pot, cover and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until rice and lentils are cooked and water is absorbed. If using a pressure cooker, cook for 2-3 whistles and let the pressure release naturally.
- 9
Once cooked, gently fluff the khichuri with a fork. Sprinkle garam masala powder over the top. Serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓You can add other vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or bell peppers.
- ✓For a richer flavor, use a combination of ghee and oil.
- ✓Adjust the water quantity based on the type of rice and lentils used and desired consistency.
🔄 Variations
- Add a fried egg or a piece of fried fish on the side for a more complete meal.
- A dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice can add a refreshing tang.