Chana Dal Khichdi Recipe
Chana Dal Khichdi, a wholesome North Indian dish, beautifully blends the comforting flavors of rice and Bengal gram dal (chana dal). This nourishing one-pot meal is not only simple to prepare but also perfect for a cozy dinner or a fulfilling lunch. Packed with protein and spiced just right, it can be enjoyed on its own or accompanied by a side of creamy Gujarati Kadhi or any raita of your choice.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 1 cup |
| Chana dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1/2 cup (soaked and drained) |
| Asafoetida (hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Green Chillies | 2 (sliced or chopped) |
| Ginger | 1/2 teaspoon (grated) |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil (for cooking) | 2 tablespoons (preferably vegetable oil) |
| Coriander leaves | For garnish (optional) |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
Preparation Time
| Time Component | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 10 minutes |
| Cooking | 30 minutes |
| Total | 40 minutes |
Servings
| Serving Size | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Number of Servings | 4 |
Instructions
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Wash and Soak: Begin your culinary journey by washing the rice and chana dal thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. Next, soak each in separate bowls of water for approximately one hour to allow them to soften.
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Prepare the Chana Dal: Heat a pressure cooker over medium heat and add the soaked and drained chana dal. Cook the dal for about one whistle, which will ensure it is half-cooked. Once the whistle is released, turn off the heat and set the cooker aside.
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Sauté the Spices: In a wide pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add a bay leaf, cumin seeds, and a pinch of asafoetida (hing). Sauté these ingredients for about 30 seconds until they release their aromatic flavors into the oil.
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Cook the Aromatics: After 30 seconds, introduce the sliced green chillies and grated ginger into the pan. Sauté them until the ginger becomes fragrant and tender.
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Combine Rice and Dal: Add the washed rice, half-cooked chana dal, turmeric powder, and salt to the pan. Stir well to mix all the ingredients thoroughly and cook them together for about a minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Add Water: Pour in 2 cups of water into the pan. Mix everything well, ensuring the rice and dal are submerged in water. Cover the pan with a lid and cook on a medium flame for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice and dal are cooked through and the mixture becomes dry and tender.
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Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the lid and fluff the khichdi gently with a fork. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve your delicious Chana Dal Khichdi hot, alongside a bowl of Gujarati Kadhi or your favorite raita, for a delightful and nutritious meal that’s sure to please.
This delightful Chana Dal Khichdi recipe, rich in flavors and nutrients, makes for a comforting dish that is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your hunger. Enjoy this culinary experience, perfect for any occasion!
