Khichdi stands as a highly nutritious and satisfying meal choice. Discover its incredible array of health advantages.
For vegans, khichdi serves as an excellent alternative to chicken soup. Comprising a blend of rice and various lentils like green, yellow, or red split lentils, khichdi is renowned for its nourishing and comforting qualities. With subtle spices, it can be savored on its own or paired with yogurt.
While many of us associate khichdi with blandness, its nutritional profile makes it a noteworthy meal choice even when in good health. Despite its simple ingredients, khichdi wasn’t always a favored dish during childhood. The editorial team at Onlymyhealth interviewed Dietician Arushi Gupta, Associate Dietician at Dayanand Medical College and Hospital in Ludhiana, to delve into the health benefits of khichdi.
Benefits of Khichdi for Health
Why is Khichdi Often Regarded as the Go-To Food During Illness? Here, We Uncover Four Unexpected Health Benefits of Khichdi That Might Surprise You:
1. Nutritiously Wholesome
As you’ve likely heard from your mother or grandmother, the notion that khichdi is beneficial for health holds true. It’s not merely a blend of rice and lentils; it’s a rich source of carbohydrates, vitamins, calcium, dietary fibers, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus. By incorporating various vegetables, you can further augment its nutritional content and flavor.
2. Gentle on Digestion
With its mild seasoning, Khichdi is gentle on the stomach and intestines, making it an ideal choice for individuals who are unwell. This nutritionally rich dish also serves as a nourishing option for infants, young children, and the elderly. Plus, it offers a welcome change from spicy foods.
3. Balances Blood Sugar Levels
Khichdi holds a significant place in the Ayurvedic diet due to its ability to harmonize all three doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, thus becoming a part of the Tridoshic routine. Apart from soothing and detoxifying the digestive system, the ingredients in Khichdi enhance energy levels, immunity, and digestion.
4. Gluten-Free
For those steering clear of gluten, Khichdi presents a suitable option, as rice and lentils are naturally devoid of gluten. This simple pot meal, comprising rice and lentils, is light on the stomach and easily digestible.
5. Enhances Immunity and Cardiovascular Health
Dal Khichdi, packed with protein, serves as an excellent immunity booster. Additionally, it promotes heart health by helping manage cholesterol levels. Consuming Khichdi in moderation can contribute to both cardiovascular well-being and immunity.
For Maximum Health Benefits, Consider the Following Lentil Consumption Tips
How to Prepare Khichdi at Home
Here’s a recipe for Moong Dal Khichdi
Ingredients:
- ½ cup split green gram dal with husk
- ½ cup rice (any variety)
- 1 small to medium-sized finely chopped onion
- 1 medium-sized chopped tomato
- ½ inch finely chopped or grated ginger
- 1 small chopped green chili
- ¾ tsp cumin seeds
- ¼ tsp turmeric powder
- Pinch of asafoetida
- 3.5 cups water (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1.5 tbsp oil or ghee
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Rinse and wash the moong lentils and rice together. Soak them in water for 30 minutes.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee or oil in a pressure cooker. Add cumin seeds. When they start spluttering, add the onions.
- Sauté the onions until translucent; there’s no need to brown them.
- Once the onions are translucent, add the tomatoes, ginger, and green chili. Stir to prevent burning. Add turmeric powder and asafoetida, and cook until the tomatoes soften.
- Drain the soaked rice and lentils and add them to the pressure cooker. Stir for a minute.
- Pour water and season with salt. Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook the khichdi on high flame until you get 6 to 7 whistles.
- If the khichdi is too thick, add some water and stir again.
- Simmer the khichdi on low flame until you achieve the desired consistency.
- Adjust the consistency to your liking by adding more or less water.
- Once the khichdi is cooked, top it with some ghee before serving.
- Serve moong dal khichdi with yogurt and salad.
Now that you’re aware of the health benefits of khichdi, enjoy its digestive benefits and make it easily at home.