### Masala Khichdi Recipe: A Nourishing One-Pot Dish
Masala khichdi is a soothing and healthful meal that blends rice, lentils, vegetables, and Indian spices into a charming one-pot dish. This adaptable recipe is loved throughout the Indian subcontinent, with each locale presenting its distinct variation. Whether you’re pressed for time or in search of a nourishing dish, masala khichdi is an excellent option.
#### Ingredients
– **Rice**: 1 cup (ideally jeera rice or any short-grain variety)
– **Lentils**: 1/4 cup tur dal (arhar dal) and 1/4 cup moong dal
– **Vegetables**: Assorted vegetables of your preference (carrots, potatoes, green peas, beans, tomatoes)
– **Spices**: Whole spices (2-3 cloves, 1-inch cinnamon stick, 1-2 cardamom pods, 1 bay leaf, star anise)
– **Turmeric Powder**: 1/2 teaspoon
– **Ghee or Oil**: 2 tablespoons (for frying)
– **Curry Leaves**: A few
– **Coriander Leaves**: For garnish
– **Water**: 3 cups (adjust for preferred consistency)
– **Salt**: To taste
#### Instructions
1. **Preparation**: Clean the rice and lentils together under running water until it runs clear. Soak them for approximately 30 minutes if time allows, then drain.
2. **Cooking**:
– In a pressure cooker or rice cooker, warm the ghee or oil over medium heat.
– Add the whole spices (cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, bay leaf, star anise) and sauté for a minute until aromatic.
– Introduce the chopped mixed vegetables and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
– Mix in the turmeric powder along with the rinsed rice and lentils. Combine thoroughly to coat the grains with spices.
– Add the water and season with salt to taste. Stir everything together.
3. **Pressure Cooking**: If you’re using a pressure cooker, secure the lid and cook for about 2-3 whistles. For a rice cooker, simply activate it and cook until ready.
4. **Finishing Touches**: After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally. Fluff the khichdi with a fork and top with chopped coriander leaves and curry leaves.
5. **Serving**: Serve warm alongside pickles and yogurt or raita for a complete meal. Masala khichdi is ideal for lunch boxes or as a cozy dinner option.
#### Tips for Perfect Masala Khichdi
– **Vegetable Variations**: Feel free to incorporate any vegetables you have available. The more colorful, the better!
– **Texture Preference**: For a creamier khichdi, add more water. For a drier texture, use less water.
– **Spice Level**: Modify the spices to suit your taste. Whole spices yield a milder flavor compared to ground spices.
– **Ghee vs. Oil**: Ghee imparts a rich flavor, but vegetable oil is equally effective for a lighter option.
Masala khichdi is not merely a dish; it offers a warm embrace in a bowl, making it a perfect choice any day. Relish this nourishing meal that provides comfort and sustenance to your table.