Khatti Meethi Palak Khichdi Recipe: A Perfect Blend of Flavours and Nutrition
Khatti Meethi Palak Khichdi is a unique and delicious variation of the traditional khichdi, offering a balance of tangy, sweet, and savory notes that come together to create a satisfying and nutritious meal. This North Indian dish is made using a combination of rice, split toor dal, spinach, and a variety of flavorful spices, making it a wholesome option for dinner. The addition of jaggery brings a subtle sweetness, while the lemon juice adds a tangy twist, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious vegetarian meal or a comforting dish to enjoy with family, this khichdi is a perfect choice.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients for Khatti Meethi Palak Khichdi
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Tomato | 1, finely chopped |
| Ginger | 2 inches, finely chopped |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 1-inch, broken |
| Bay leaf (Tej Patta) | 1, torn |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Jaggery | 1 tablespoon |
| Lemon | Juice extracted |
| Salt | To taste |
| Rice | 3/4 cup |
| Arhar dal (Split Toor Dal) | 3/4 cup |
| Spinach (Palak) | 300 grams, chopped |
| Additional Ghee | 2 tablespoons (after cooking) |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prep the Ingredients: Begin by prepping all the ingredients for the Khatti Meethi Palak Khichdi. Chop the spinach (palak), ginger, and tomatoes. Set aside.
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Cook the Spinach: In a pressure cooker, add the chopped spinach along with 2 tablespoons of water. Cover the pressure cooker and cook for 2 whistles. After 2 whistles, turn off the heat and release the pressure by rinsing the cooker under cold water or lifting the weight with a fork. This method helps retain the vibrant green color and nutrition of the spinach.
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Prepare the Khichdi Base: While the spinach is cooking, rinse the rice and toor dal under running water and drain any excess water. Set aside.
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Tempering the Spices: Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in the pressure cooker over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them crackle for a few seconds. Next, add the broken cinnamon stick and torn bay leaf, stirring for a few more seconds to release their aromas.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Add the finely chopped ginger and tomatoes to the cooker. Stir and cook until the tomatoes soften slightly. Then, add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and asafoetida, mixing well.
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Add Rice, Dal, and Water: Add the rinsed rice and toor dal to the cooker. Stir well to coat the grains with the spices. Add salt, jaggery, and 4 cups of water. Mix everything thoroughly.
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Cook the Khichdi: Close the pressure cooker lid and cook the khichdi for 4 to 5 whistles. Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. This ensures that the khichdi continues cooking with the residual heat.
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Combine with Cooked Spinach: Once the pressure is released, open the cooker and stir in the cooked spinach. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and the additional 2 tablespoons of ghee. Stir the khichdi well and bring it to a brisk boil for about 2 minutes.
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Final Taste Check: Turn off the heat and check the taste. Adjust the salt and spices as needed.
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Serve: Transfer the Khatti Meethi Palak Khichdi to a serving bowl. Serve hot, topped with a dollop of ghee, sliced onions, and crispy papad for an added crunch. Enjoy this wholesome, flavorful meal with your loved ones!
Serving Suggestions:
- With Papad: For added crunch and texture, serve the Khatti Meethi Palak Khichdi with crispy papad on the side.
- Topped with Ghee: Adding an extra spoonful of ghee enhances the richness and flavor of the dish.
- Pair with Raita: A side of cool raita can complement the spiced khichdi, making for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Khatti Meethi Palak Khichdi is a perfect fusion of taste and nutrition, ideal for a satisfying vegetarian dinner. With the goodness of spinach, the warmth of spices, and the sweetness of jaggery, this dish is both comforting and energizing. Try this recipe and enjoy the delightful flavors of North India in your own kitchen!
