Introduction:
Palak Khichadi is a nutritious and comforting dish that combines the goodness of spinach with the simplicity of khichadi. This one-pot meal is not only easy to prepare but also a flavorful way to incorporate wholesome ingredients into your diet. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to create a delicious Palak Khichadi that is sure to satisfy your taste buds and provide a dose of healthy greens.
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Ingredients:
Split yellow lentils (moong dal) - 1/2 cup
Basmati rice - 1/2 cup
Spinach (palak) - 2 cups, finely chopped
Onion - 1, finely chopped
Tomato - 1, finely chopped
Green chilies - 2, finely chopped
Ginger-garlic paste - 1 tablespoon
Cumin seeds (jeera) - 1 teaspoon
Turmeric powder - 1/2 teaspoon
Red chili powder - 1/2 teaspoon
Garam masala - 1/2 teaspoon
Asafoetida (hing) - a pinch
Ghee or vegetable oil - 2 tablespoons
Salt - to taste
Water - 3 cups
Steps:
Preparing Lentils and Rice:
Rinse split yellow lentils and basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
In a bowl, soak the lentils and rice in water for 30 minutes.
Sautéing Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat ghee or vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
Add chopped tomatoes and green chilies. Cook until the tomatoes are soft.
Adding Spinach and Spices:
Add finely chopped spinach to the pot. Cook until the spinach wilts and blends well with the onion-tomato mixture.
Sprinkle turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and a pinch of asafoetida. Mix thoroughly.
Cooking Lentils and Rice:
Drain the soaked lentils and rice. Add them to the pot with sautéed aromatics.
Mix well and sauté for a couple of minutes.
Pour in water, add salt to taste, and bring it to a boil.
Reduce the heat, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer until the lentils and rice are fully cooked.
Final Touch:
Once the khichadi is cooked, fluff it with a fork to mix the lentils, rice, and spinach evenly.
Serve the Palak Khichadi hot, garnished with a drizzle of ghee and fresh coriander leaves.
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy Palak Khichadi with a side of plain yogurt or raita.
Pair it with pickles, papad, or a cucumber salad for added freshness.
Conclusion:
Palak Khichadi is a delightful marriage of lentils, rice, and spinach that offers a balanced and nutritious meal. Packed with the goodness of greens and aromatic spices, this khichadi is a perfect choice for a quick, wholesome, and comforting dish. Whether for a light lunch or dinner, Palak Khichadi is a versatile and flavorful option that caters to both taste and health.
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