Matki Khichdi Recipe – Palak Pudina Moth Bean Khichdi
Introduction:
Matki Khichdi, also known as Hariyali Moth Bean Khichdi, is a wholesome, comforting dish from North India. Packed with nourishing ingredients like spinach, mint, and moth beans (Matki), this vibrant khichdi is a delightful and nutritious choice for a weeknight dinner. It is an ideal combination of flavors—earthy and mildly spicy with the freshness of mint and spinach, offering a healthy alternative to traditional rice-based dishes. Best enjoyed with tangy Rajasthani Kadhi, a crunchy Satvik Sprouts Salad, and crisp Roasted Papad, this dish is bound to impress your family and guests.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 3/4 cup |
| Moth Dal (Matki) – soaked overnight | 1 cup |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Spinach (roughly chopped) | 1 cup |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina) (roughly chopped) | 1/2 cup |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1 teaspoon |
| Ghee | 2 teaspoons + 1 tablespoon (for tadka) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 4 cloves |
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Servings:
4 servings
Cuisine:
North Indian
Course:
Dinner
Diet:
Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Prep the Moth Beans and Rice:
- Begin by washing and soaking the moth beans (Matki) in water overnight. This step is crucial for ensuring that the beans cook quickly and evenly.
- Similarly, wash and soak the rice for about 10 minutes before starting the cooking process.
-
Cook the Khichdi Base:
- Heat 2 teaspoons of ghee in a pressure cooker or a large saucepan. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle. The cumin seeds will infuse the oil with a warm, earthy aroma.
- Add the asafoetida and finely chopped onion. Sauté the onions for about 2–3 minutes until they turn translucent and soft.
- Now, add the roughly chopped spinach and mint leaves to the pot. Sauté these greens for another 2 minutes until they soften and shrink slightly.
-
Add the Rice and Moth Beans:
- Drain the soaked rice and moth beans and add them to the pressure cooker. Stir well to combine with the sautéed onions, spinach, and mint mixture.
- Add 4 cups of water, making sure the grains and beans are well-covered. Season with salt and garam masala powder. Give everything a good stir.
-
Pressure Cook the Khichdi:
- Close the lid of the pressure cooker and cook the mixture on medium heat for 3–4 whistles. Afterward, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally.
-
Tadka (Tempering):
- While the khichdi is cooking, prepare the garlic tadka. In a small pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee. Add the finely chopped garlic cloves and fry them until they turn golden and crispy. This step adds an aromatic crunch to the khichdi.
-
Final Mixing and Serving:
- Once the pressure has released, open the lid of the pressure cooker. Gently fluff the khichdi with a fork or spoon to mix the rice, moth beans, and spinach evenly.
- Pour the crispy garlic tadka over the cooked khichdi. Stir it in to ensure the garlic infuses the dish with its flavor.
- Garnish with additional fresh mint leaves for a burst of color and freshness.
-
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Matki Khichdi hot, paired with Rajasthani Kadhi, a refreshing Satvik Sprouts Salad, and Roasted Papad for a wholesome, satisfying meal. The combination of flavors is both comforting and balanced—perfect for a hearty dinner.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving):
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45-50g |
| Protein | 12-15g |
| Fat | 9-10g |
| Fiber | 5-7g |
| Sodium | 200-250 mg |
Tips & Variations:
- For a richer taste: You can replace some of the water with vegetable stock or add a little more ghee.
- For extra crunch: Consider adding roasted peanuts or cashews along with the garlic tadka.
- Vegan version: Simply substitute the ghee with coconut oil or olive oil.
- Spice level: Adjust the black pepper and garam masala to suit your taste for spiciness.
This Matki Khichdi Recipe is not just filling but also brimming with goodness from the nutritious beans and fresh greens. It’s an easy, quick dish that can be enjoyed by all ages, providing a perfect balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
Final Thoughts:
Matki Khichdi is a time-honored dish with deep-rooted flavors that bring together the freshness of greens with the wholesomeness of rice and beans. It is easy to make, light on the stomach, and a perfect dish to add to your weeknight dinner rotation. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weekday or a cozy family meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy and nourish!
