Moong Dal Khichdi
A gentle one-pot rice and split moong dal porridge tempered with cumin and ghee — comforting and easy on digestion, often eaten when feeling unwell.
For 2 servings
3 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Heat ghee in a pressure cooker over medium heat.
- b.Add cumin seeds and wait for them to sizzle.
- c.Stir in the ginger and asafoetida and saute for 20 seconds.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Add the rinsed rice and soaked moong dal, tossing for 30 seconds to coat in ghee.
- b.Add water, turmeric, and salt, then pressure cook for 4 whistles on medium.
- c.Let the pressure release naturally to ensure the khichdi is soft and porridge-like.
TIPNatural pressure release allows the grains to fully hydrate without breaking. - 3
Step 3
- a.Stir the mixture gently and thin with hot water if a soupier texture is desired.
- b.Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with a side of curd.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a creamier texture, use a 1:5 ratio of dal/rice to water.
- 2Don't skip soaking the rice and dal; it significantly reduces cooking time and improves texture.
- 3The final dollop of ghee (known as 'ghee ka tadka' on top) is not just for garnish; it adds immense flavor and aroma.
- 4If you don't have a pressure cooker, you can cook this in a heavy-bottomed pot with a lid. It will take about 35-40 minutes, and you may need to add more water as it cooks.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetable Masala Khichdi
After the tempering (Step 2), add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Then add 1 chopped tomato and cook until soft. Add 1 cup of mixed vegetables like carrots, peas, and beans along with the rice and dal. Add 1/2 tsp of garam masala at the end.
Different LentilsDifferent Lentils
You can make this khichdi with other lentils like toor dal (split pigeon peas) or masoor dal (red lentils), or a mix of dals for a different flavor and texture.
Millet KhichdiMillet Khichdi
For a healthier alternative, replace the rice with millets like foxtail millet or bajra (pearl millet). The soaking and cooking times may vary.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Easy to Digest
Moong dal is one of the most easily digestible lentils. The soft, porridge-like consistency of khichdi is gentle on the stomach, making it an ideal food for gut health and during recovery.
Complete Protein Source
The combination of rice (a cereal) and dal (a legume) creates a complete protein profile, providing all the essential amino acids your body needs for muscle repair and growth.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
Lentils are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in smooth digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness, and helps in regulating blood sugar levels.
Naturally Gluten-Free
This recipe is inherently gluten-free, making it a safe and wholesome meal for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Moong Dal Khichdi is considered very healthy. It's a balanced one-pot meal providing carbohydrates from rice and protein from lentils. It is light, gluten-free, and extremely easy to digest, which is why it's often recommended as a comfort food during illness or for babies and the elderly.