Discover the authentic Gujarati Masala Khichdi recipe – a perfect blend of spices, rice, and lentils in a nutritious one-pot meal. Easy to make, comforting, and packed with flavor. Ideal for any occasion!
Khichdi—a beloved comfort food in Indian households, is often seen as the go-to dish for busy days, sick days, or just when you need something wholesome. But when you add the rich spices of Gujarati cuisine, Khichdi becomes a whole new experience.
This Gujarati Masala Khichdi recipe is a delightful combination of rice, lentils, and a burst of spices, making it not just nourishing, but incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious dish to enjoy with your loved ones, this one-pot meal delivers both taste and health in every bite.
In this post, we’ll dive into the step-by-step Gujarati Masala Khichdi Recipe, share tips for getting it just right, and explore how you can customize it for your taste.
Table of Contents
What is Gujarati Masala Khichdi?
Gujarati Masala Khichdi is a spiced-up variation of the traditional Khichdi, which combines rice and lentils (typically moong dal) cooked with aromatic spices like cumin, mustard seeds, turmeric, and garam masala. It’s different from the plain Khichdi because of the addition of these flavors, making it rich, savory, and a little bit tangy.
Khichdi in Gujarati households is often considered comfort food and is commonly enjoyed during festivals, special occasions, or when you’re looking for something light but filling.
Health Benefits of Gujarati Masala Khichdi
This dish is not just delicious—it’s incredibly nutritious:
- Rich in Protein: Moong dal (yellow split lentils) is packed with protein, making this dish great for vegetarians.
- Easily Digestible: The combination of rice and lentils is easy on the stomach, making it an ideal meal for all ages.
- Full of Spices: The spices used in this Gujarati Masala Khichdi Recipe —turmeric, cumin, and mustard seeds—have numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
- Customizable: You can add a variety of vegetables, increasing the fiber and vitamin content, while also making the dish more filling.
Ingredients for Gujarati Masala Khichdi
For this flavorful Gujarati Masala Khichdi Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Staples
- 1 cup rice (preferably basmati or any long-grain rice)
- ½ cup moong dal (yellow split lentils)
Spices
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- ¼ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
Vegetables (Optional but highly recommended)
- ½ cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small carrot, diced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 tomato, chopped
Others
- 2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter) or oil for cooking
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Gujarati Masala Khichdi Recipe
Making Gujarati Masala Khichdi is easy and quick, especially if you’re using a pressure cooker. Let’s walk through the steps:
1. Preparation
- Wash the rice and moong dal together thoroughly in water until the water runs clear.
- If you’re adding vegetables, chop them into small pieces. Set everything aside.
2. Tempering (Tadka)
- In a pressure cooker, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee (or oil) over medium heat.
- Once the ghee is hot, add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
- Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) and ¼ teaspoon of turmeric powder. Stir well, allowing the spices to bloom in the hot ghee.
3. Cooking the Spices and Vegetables
- Add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger (optional), and saute until the onions turn translucent.
- Add the diced vegetables (peas, carrots, potatoes, and tomatoes). Stir everything together and cook for a few minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garam masala and salt to taste. Stir to coat the vegetables with the spices.
4. Cooking the Rice & Lentils
- Add the washed rice and moong dal to the pressure cooker. Stir to mix everything well.
- Add 3 cups of water (or adjust based on your desired consistency). For a slightly thicker Khichdi, you can use less water.
- Close the pressure cooker lid, and cook for 2-3 whistles on medium heat.
- Once the pressure cooker cools down, open the lid, and check the consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more water and cook for a couple of minutes.
5. Finishing Touches
- Stir the khichdi well, making sure the rice, lentils, and vegetables are fully mixed and softened.
- Taste and adjust salt if needed.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve with a squeeze of lemon juice for extra zest.
For more such delicious and easy recipes, click here.
Tips for Perfect Gujarati Masala Khichdi Recipe
- Consistency: Gujarati Masala Khichdi is meant to be soft and slightly pulpy. For a firmer texture, reduce the water. You can always add more water if it gets too thick after cooking.
- Spice Level: Adjust the level of spice based on your taste. If you prefer it milder, use less garam masala and chili powder.
- Add More Veggies: You can also customize it with any seasonal vegetables like zucchini, beans, or cauliflower for more variety.
- For Vegan Version: Swap out ghee with coconut oil or vegetable oil to make the dish vegan.
- Topping Ideas: You can top the khichdi with curd(yogurt ), a papad, or some spicy pickle to enhance the flavor.
For a detailed recipe video, click here.
Serving Suggestions
Gujarati Masala Khichdi is a complete meal on its own, but it can also be paired with:
- Plain curd (yogurt): The creaminess of curd (yogurt) complements the spices and adds a cooling effect.
- Pickles: A tangy, spicy pickle on the side can add a zesty kick to the meal.
- Papad: Crispy papad or chips are often served with Khichdi for a delightful crunch.
This dish is ideal for lunch, dinner, or even when you need something light yet filling. It’s also a fantastic option for a quick meal during festivals, or when you’re feeling under the weather and need something gentle on the stomach.
