When your body needs comfort, your mind craves stillness, and your soul longs for simplicity—dal khichdi is the answer. A timeless one-pot dish that unites rice and lentils into a soft, spiced, and easily digestible meal, this version honors Ayurvedic principles and your gut.
What Is Dal Khichdi with Masoor or Moong Dal?
Dal khichdi is a classic Indian comfort food made with rice and lentils. This gentle version uses either masoor dal (red lentils) or moong dal (yellow split or whole), both known for being light on digestion and rich in nourishment. Free from heavy dals like toor or channa, it’s ideal for those seeking gut-soothing warmth.
How to Make Dal Khichdi with Masoor or Moong Dal: The Traditional Way
🛒 Ingredients:
For the Coriander Paste
- ½ cup rice (any non-glutinous variety; hand-pounded preferred)
- ½ cup masoor dal or moong dal
- 4 cups water
- 1 tsp ghee
- ½ tsp jeera (cumin seeds)
- A pinch of hing (asafoetida)
- ½ tsp grated ginger
- A few curry leaves
- ⅛ tsp turmeric powder
- Rock salt to taste
- Optional: Lightly sautéed vegetables (carrot, bottle gourd, or spinach)
- Coriander leaves for garnish
🥣 Method:
- Cook:
- In a pressure cooker or pot, add rice, dal, water, turmeric, and salt.
- Pressure cook for 3–4 whistles or simmer until soft and porridge-like.
- Prepare Tempering:
- Heat ghee in a small pan. Add cumin, hing, ginger, and curry leaves.
- Sauté for a few seconds until aromatic.
- Combine:
- Pour the tempering into the cooked khichdi. Mix well and simmer for 2–3 more minutes.
- Garnish:
- Top with chopped coriander. Serve warm with a spoon of ghee if desired.
🌿 Ayurvedic Benefits
- Balances vata and pitta doshas
- Masoor and moong are easily digestible proteins
- Acts as a digestive reset for gut health and ama (toxin) reduction
- Ghee supports agni (digestive fire) and ojas (vital energy)
💡Pro Tips from the Indian Kitchen
- Add more water if you like a soupier texture; this helps during convalescence.
- Avoid heavy vegetables like potatoes or peas if preparing for weak digestion.
- Add ajwain (carom seeds) for gas-prone individuals.
❤️ Why We Love Dal Khichdi with Masoor or Moong Dal
- Simple, complete, and soothing
- Can be dressed up or down (luxurious or minimal)
- Ideal for fasting, illness recovery, or daily dinners
- Gentle on the stomach and full of flavor
🧘 Ideal For
- Babies and elders
- Post-illness diets
- Light evening meals
- Ayurvedic detox days
- Anyone in need of a bowl of warm, healing love
