Bhojpuri Style Khatua Khichdi Recipe
An Authentic Bihari Delight, Perfect for a Light Weeknight Dinner
If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful, and light meal, the Bhojpuri Style Khatua Khichdi is a delightful choice. Originating from the Bhojpur region in Bihar, this variation of khichdi is made with rice and toor dal (split pigeon peas), paired with a hint of melon juice for a mildly sweet touch, adding a unique dimension to the flavor. The use of fresh ingredients like pounded garlic and green chili paste enhances the taste, while the subtle addition of turmeric brings a warmth to the dish. Although traditionally made with leftover rice and dal, we’ve crafted this version from scratch for a fresh, flavorful meal.
This dish is often served alongside curd, salad, and papad, making it a wholesome and satisfying option for a weeknight dinner. The combination of light spices and textures creates the perfect balance, providing comfort without being overly heavy. Now, let’s dive into the recipe and bring this traditional Bhojpuri delight to your table!
Ingredients for Bhojpuri Style Khatua Khichdi (Khatua Recipe)
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati Rice | 1 cup |
| Arhar Dal (Split Toor Dal) | 1 cup |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 large |
| Onion (for garnish, sliced) | 1 medium onion |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Green Chillies | 2 whole |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Lemon Juice | 2 teaspoons |
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
Cooking Time
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
Instructions for Preparing Bhojpuri Style Khatua Khichdi
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Prepare the Rice and Dal: Begin by washing the basmati rice and toor dal (split pigeon peas) under running water until the water runs clear. Once washed, soak the rice and dal in water for about one hour.
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Cook the Rice and Dal: After the soaking time, transfer the rice and dal into a pressure cooker. Add 5 cups of water, turmeric powder, and salt to taste. Pressure cook the mixture for 5 to 6 whistles, and then allow the pressure to release naturally. Once the pressure is released, open the lid, and mash the khichdi mixture gently to achieve a smooth, well-combined texture. Set this aside.
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Prepare the Tadka (Tempering): Heat the ghee in a small frying pan or tadka pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté them until they turn translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
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Make the Garlic-Chili Paste: While the onions are sautéing, roughly pound the garlic cloves and green chillies together using a mortar and pestle. Once the onions are done, add the garlic-chili paste to the tadka pan. Continue to sauté for another minute or so, allowing the raw garlic smell to dissipate and the paste to infuse the oil.
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Combine the Tadka with Khichdi: Pour the prepared tadka (tempering) into the mashed khichdi. Add the fresh lemon juice, mixing everything well until the flavors are fully incorporated.
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Garnish and Serve: For the finishing touch, garnish the khichdi with the sliced onion rings. This adds a slight crunch and a fresh, mild sweetness to the dish. Serve your Khatua Khichdi with a side of curd (yogurt), a refreshing salad, and crispy papad for a well-rounded meal.
Serving Suggestions
For a more complete Bhojpuri-inspired meal, serve this khichdi alongside Burani Raita, Palak Raita, or any raita of your choice. The creamy, tangy flavors of the raita perfectly complement the mildly spiced khichdi, making it a balanced and satisfying dinner.
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300-350 kcal |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
Why You’ll Love Bhojpuri Style Khatua Khichdi
This Khatua Khichdi is a beautiful marriage of simplicity and flavor. With the combination of rice, dal, and aromatic spices, it offers a wholesome meal without being overly rich. The addition of melon juice enhances its lightness, making it a refreshing and mild dish that won’t weigh you down. Whether you’re looking for a comfort food that’s easy on the stomach or a quick dinner option, this khichdi is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Enjoy this beloved Bihari recipe and bring the taste of Bhojpuri cuisine to your dining table today!
