Sago Khichdi (Savory Tapioca Pearls Stir Fry) Recipe
Sago Khichdi, a delightful dish made with soaked tapioca pearls, is not only a favorite for fasting days but also a perfect choice for a savory snack or light dinner on any given day. This Indian recipe is especially popular during Navratri and Shivratri fasting, where it’s enjoyed as a wholesome, satisfying meal. The soft, pearl-like tapioca (sabudana) is cooked with bite-sized potatoes, roasted peanuts, and a medley of spices, making this dish flavorful and nutritious. To elevate the taste, pomegranate kernels are added, providing a burst of color and a slight tang that perfectly complements the mild flavors of the khichdi. If you’re seeking a dish that’s both delicious and comforting, Sago Khichdi is an excellent choice to add to your meal repertoire.
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Dinner, Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2–3
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sabudana (Tapioca Pearls) | 1 cup |
| Raw Peanuts (Moongphali) | 1/4 cup |
| Anardana Powder (Pomegranate Seed Powder) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves, chopped | 1 teaspoon |
| Oil | As needed |
| Salt | To taste (Use kala namak for fasting) |
| Potato (Aloo), boiled, peeled, and chopped | 1 medium-sized |
| Tomato, finely chopped | 1 small |
| Lemon Juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Green Chilli, finely chopped | 1 small |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 200-250 kcal |
| Protein | 4-6 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 45 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 2-3 grams |
| Fat | 8-10 grams |
| Sodium | 300-400 mg |
| Potassium | 300-400 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15-20% of Daily Value |
Instructions
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Soak the Sabudana: Begin by soaking the sabudana (tapioca pearls) in water for 4-5 hours, allowing them to soften and puff up. Once soaked, drain the water and set the sabudana aside to dry for a few minutes to prevent it from becoming sticky or lumpy.
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Roast the Peanuts: In a large wok or frying pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the raw peanuts and roast them until they turn a golden brown color. Keep stirring occasionally to ensure they don’t burn.
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Sauté the Vegetables: To the wok, add the chopped potatoes, finely chopped tomatoes, and green chilies. Sauté the mixture for about 5-8 minutes, or until the potatoes become tender and lightly browned. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Add Sabudana and Spices: Once the potatoes are soft, add the soaked and drained sabudana to the wok. Season with salt (or kala namak if preparing for fasting), and sprinkle in the chopped coriander leaves. Stir everything gently to combine and allow the sabudana to heat through, absorbing the flavors.
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Finishing Touches: Turn off the heat and add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and anardana powder (pomegranate seed powder). Mix well to distribute the tangy flavors evenly throughout the dish. Finally, add the pomegranate kernels for a pop of color and added flavor.
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Serve: Serve the Sago Khichdi hot, either on its own or paired with a side of cooling raita for extra flavor. It’s perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or as part of your dinner spread.
Tips for the Perfect Sago Khichdi:
- Soaking the Sabudana: Make sure the sabudana is soaked properly, as under-soaked pearls can become hard while cooking. After soaking, always drain the excess water and let it dry slightly to avoid clumping.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The key to this dish’s vibrant flavor lies in using fresh, quality ingredients, especially the coriander and pomegranate kernels.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the number of green chilies according to your spice preference. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the number of chilies or omit them entirely.
- Vary the Garnish: While pomegranate kernels are a delightful addition, you can also experiment with other garnishes like roasted sesame seeds, fresh mint, or grated coconut to add extra texture and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sago Khichdi is a wonderful blend of textures—soft tapioca pearls, crunchy peanuts, and tender potatoes—all flavored with the warmth of spices and the tang of lemon. Whether you’re fasting or simply in the mood for a light meal, this savory stir-fry provides a nourishing and satisfying option. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile: you can easily make it gluten-free, adjust the spices to your liking, and pair it with a variety of dips or sides to elevate your meal. Enjoy this delightful dish, perfect for fasting days or any day you crave something comforting and wholesome!
