Since the weather is chilly, our bodies crave warm, nourishing meals. Enter Millet Khichdi – a comforting, nutritious twist on the classic Indian dish that’s perfect for those cozy fall and winter days.
This one-pot wonder combines nutrient-rich millets with lentils and vegetables, creating a hearty meal that’s not just delicious but also incredibly good for you.
Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply in need of a soul-warming dish, this Millet Khichdi is sure to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Nutrient-rich: Packed with essential minerals and vitamins from millets
Easy to digest: Perfect for when you’re feeling low on energy
Versatile: Can be customized with different vegetables and spices
One-pot meal: Minimal cleanup for maximum flavor
Nutritional Benefits: Millet Khichdi is a powerhouse of nutrition. Millets are rich in fiber, B vitamins, and minerals like iron and magnesium. The lentils provide plant-based protein, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and antioxidants. It’s a balanced meal that supports digestive health and provides sustained energy.
Millet Khichdi: The Ultimate Comfort Food for Fall and Winter
- 23 Jan 2025
- 0 Comments
Ingredients
- 1 cup Millet mixed, any variety
- 1/2 cup Yellow Moong Dal split yellow lentils
- 1 Potato small, diced
- 1 Carrot diced
- 1/2 Cup Green Peas
- 1 Onion small, finely chopped
- 2 Tomatoes chopped
- 2 Green Chilies slit
- 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
- 1 tsp Mustard Seeds
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric Powder
- 1 tsp Ginger-Garlic Paste
- 2 tbsp Ghee or oil
- 4 cups Water
- Salt to taste
- Fresh Cilantro chopped, for garnish
- Lemon Wedges for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Rinse the millet and moong dal thoroughly under running water. Drain and setaside.
- Chop the vegetables as indicated.
Cook the Khichdi:
- Using a Pressure Cooker. Heat ghee or oil in a pressure cooker over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. When they start to splutter, add choppedonions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and sauté for a minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes turnsoft and mushy.
- Add the diced vegetables, millet, and moong dal to the pressure cooker. Mix well.
- Pour in 4 cups of water, stir, and close the lid. Cook on high heat for 2 whistles, then reduce the heat to low and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Allow the pressure to release naturally. Open the lid and stir the khichdi.
- Using an Instant Pot. Set the Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode and heat the ghee or oil.
- Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. When they start to splutter, add choppedonions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and sauté for a minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes turnsoft and mushy.
- Add the diced vegetables, millet, and moong dal to the Instant Pot. Mix well.
- Pour in 4 cups of water, stir, and close the lid. Set the Instant Pot to 'Pressure Cook' on high for 10 minutes.
- Allow the pressure to release naturally. Open the lid and stir the khichdi.
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Serving Suggestions:
- Top with a dollop of ghee for extra richness
- Serve with a side of yogurt or raita for coolness
- Pair with roasted papad (Indian crispy flatbread) for crunch
- Add a squeeze of lemon for a tangy twist
Tips and Variations:
- Experiment with different millet varieties like foxtail, pearl, or finger millet
- Add roasted cashews or almonds for extra crunch and healthy fats
- Stir in some coconut milk for a creamy texture
- For a spicier version, add green chilies or red chili powder
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips: Millet Khichdi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It may thicken when cooled, so add a splash of water when reheating. You can also freeze individual portions for up to a month for quick, healthy meals.
Our Millet Khichdi is more than just a meal – it’s a comforting ritual that nourishes both body and soul. Perfect for those days when you need a little extra care, this dish is sure to become your go-to fall and winter comfort food. It’s a testament to the fact that healthy eating can be both delicious and satisfying. Give it a try and discover the warming, nourishing power of this ancient grain dish!
