Masala Oats And Moong Dal Khichdi
A wholesome and flavorful one-pot breakfast, this Khichdi blends the goodness of oats and moong dal with aromatic Indian spices for a nutritious start to your day.
For 1 serving
Rinse moong dal thoroughly and soak it in fresh water for 15-20 minutes while you prepare other ingredients. Drain well before use.
TIPSoaking helps the dal cook faster and more evenly.Heat ghee or oil in a small pot or pressure cooker over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
TIPEnsure the oil is hot enough for the seeds to temper properly.Add chopped onion, ginger-garlic paste, and green chili. Sauté until the onion turns translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
TIPStir frequently to prevent burning.Stir in the chopped tomato, turmeric powder, red chili powder (if using), and garam masala. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the spices are fragrant.
TIPA splash of water can prevent spices from burning if needed.Add the drained moong dal, rolled oats, water, and salt. Mix everything well.
TIPEnsure no lumps of oats are formed.Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the dal and oats are cooked through and the khichdi reaches a thick, porridge-like consistency. If using a pressure cooker, cook for 1-2 whistles on medium heat.
TIPAdjust water quantity for your preferred consistency; add more if you like it thinner.Once cooked, let it rest for a minute, then open the lid and gently stir. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
TIPA dollop of extra ghee can be added for richness, if desired.
What to keep in mind.
3 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a richer flavor, toast the rolled oats lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the khichdi.
- 2Feel free to add other finely chopped vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition and texture.
- 3Adjust the spice levels to your preference by modifying the green chili and red chili powder.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan Version
Substitute ghee with a plant-based oil like olive oil or coconut oil to make this recipe entirely vegan.
Vegetable BoostVegetable Boost
Enhance the nutritional profile by adding finely chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach during the cooking process.
Gluten Free OptionGluten-Free Option
Ensure your rolled oats are certified gluten-free if you have a gluten sensitivity, as some oats can be cross-contaminated.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High Protein Content
Moong dal and oats contribute to 16g of protein per serving, essential for muscle repair and satiety.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
Rolled oats and moong dal provide significant fiber, supporting digestive health and helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
Sustained Energy Release
The combination of complex carbohydrates from oats and protein from dal ensures a slow release of energy, preventing energy crashes.
Frequently asked questions
While possible, steel-cut oats require longer cooking times and more liquid. Rolled oats are recommended for this recipe's quick preparation and texture.