Khichari Recipe

Khichari Recipe ~

~ also known as khichuri, khichri, or khichdi ~

What makes it khichdi? the rice and lentils. It balances all three doshas and is a great meal for any constitution; see variations below to adjust it according to your specific needs, budget, and area of the world. 

I start with these beauties: mung beans. Versatile. Legume family. Anti-inflammatory. Rich in potassium, magnesium, fiber, and antioxidants. 

As with other beans, soak them overnight after rinsing as any times as is needed. Be sure to leave enough space as these babies expand A LOT! 

Choose your grain: I like quinoa as it's high in protein. You can also use lentils or rice of any variety.

Raid your kitchen (or visit Suva Spicemart in Ventura, CA) for the fun part. Grab (or make!) ghee and/or coconut oil (for a more cooling effect). Avocado oil is yet another idea...

Then it's time for the slow cooker/crock pot... best invention other than chocolate and bread, right? 

Spices vary, but be sure to include Hing (asafoetida)
Buy it at the Spicemart for about $2 and it will last you for years. It is POTENT as a dried herb, but the intensity cooks down over time in the heat. Store it in an airtight container after (and before...) you open it. This is an amazing addition to the dish as it aids in digestion and provides a 'smoothing' out quality to the other spices.

Other spices to consider and experiment with:

• Mustard Seeds 

• Fennel

• Fresh Ginger

• Turmeric

• Cumin

• Cardamon

• Fenugreek

• Pepper and Salt

note: this is NOT an exhaustive list.

Finally, add your veggies - choose ones that are in season! - and close the lid and turn on the heat!
Ideas: burdock or carrots, green beans, zucchini, beets, peas, tomatoes, etc, etc.

Slow cook during the day or overnight and enjoy a beautiful dish that is used in Ayurvedic cleanses because it's a dish that both nourishes and cleanses. 

Add some yoghurt or cilantro and enjoy!