Sama Khichdi Recipe – Barnyard Millet Khichdi for Navratri Fasting
Introduction
Sama Khichdi, made with barnyard millet, is a delectable dish that holds a special place in the culinary traditions of India, especially during the auspicious occasion of Navratri. This comforting and nutritious meal is not only suitable for fasting but also serves as a wholesome option for anyone looking to explore gluten-free grains. Packed with vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices, this khichdi offers a delightful balance of flavors, making it an ideal choice for lunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Barnyard Millet | 1 cup |
| Green Chilli (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Potato (boiled and cubed) | 1 |
| Carrot (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Tomato (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Bay Leaves (torn) | 1 |
| Cinnamon Stick | 1 inch |
| Lemon Juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Leaves (finely chopped) | 2 sprigs |
| Whole Black Peppercorns (crushed) | 2 teaspoons |
| Rock Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower Oil | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 39 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Sodium | 120 mg |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 15 mins |
| Cooking | 30 mins |
| Total Time | 45 mins |
Instructions
To prepare the delicious Sama Khichdi, we start by dry roasting the barnyard millet in a pan over medium heat. Keep stirring until it turns a light brown color, then turn off the flame and allow it to cool completely. This step enhances the nuttiness of the millet and adds depth to the overall flavor.
Next, heat a pressure cooker and add 1 teaspoon of sunflower oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the finely chopped green chillies, torn bay leaves, the cinnamon stick, and the crushed black peppercorns. Stir the spices for a few seconds to release their aromas, which will infuse the oil beautifully.
Following this, introduce the chopped potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes to the cooker. Sauté these vegetables for a few minutes until they begin to soften; this step allows them to meld together, creating a harmonious base for the khichdi.
Now, it’s time to add the roasted barnyard millet into the pot. For every cup of millet, pour in 2 cups of water to achieve a creamy and comforting consistency. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil. Once boiling, cover the cooker with its lid and cook for about 2 whistles on medium heat.
After the cooking time is complete, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. This ensures that the millet continues to cook in its own steam, achieving the perfect texture.
Once the pressure has released, carefully open the lid and transfer the khichdi into a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright finish. Give it a gentle mix to incorporate all the flavors.
For an authentic experience, serve your creamy Sama Khichdi alongside Cucumber Green Chilli Raita and Makhana Moongphali Ki Kadhi. This combination not only complements the khichdi but also provides a refreshing balance to the meal.
Enjoying Your Meal
As you savor each bite of this delicious Sama Khichdi, relish the unique blend of flavors and the heartwarming comfort it brings. Perfect for those observing fasting during Navratri or anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious vegetarian dish, this khichdi is sure to delight your palate and nourish your body. Enjoy your culinary journey with this traditional Indian recipe that embodies the spirit of love and festivity.
Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences, and don’t hesitate to experiment with additional vegetables to make it your own! Happy cooking!
