Palak Khichadi: A Wholesome Spinach Delight

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.