The Heart of Indian Winter Comfort
Khichdi is the kind of dish that makes everything feel right again. Soft, warm, easy on the stomach, and deeply comforting. It is the meal so many Indian homes prepare when winter sets in and the need for something soothing grows stronger.
For Indian expats living in Europe, one spoonful brings back memories of slow afternoons, steaming bowls on the dining table, and the unmistakable aroma of ghee and turmeric.
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Why Khichdi Belongs in Every Winter Kitchen
A good Khichdi is simple but perfect. Creamy rice, soft lentils, gentle spices, and a spoon of fragrant ghee. It is nourishing, filling, and ideal for cold days when you want something that feels like a warm hug.
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Your Essential Ingredients for Authentic Khichdi
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½ cup Tirupati Moong Dal
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½ cup Sona Masoori Rice
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1 to 2 tbsp Fortune Ghee or GRB Ghee
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½ tsp Turmeric
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1 tsp Cumin Seeds
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1 inch Ginger, grated
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Salt, to taste
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4 cups Water
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Serving Size and Duration
Serves: 2 to 3 people
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
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Step by Step Instructions
Roast the Dal
Rinse and lightly dry roast the moong dal until it gives off a gentle nutty aroma.
Cook the Rice and Dal
Combine rice and dal with 4 cups of water, turmeric, salt, and ginger. Cook until soft and slightly mushy.
Prepare the Tempering
Heat ghee in a small pan. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
Combine Everything
Pour the tempering over the cooked Khichdi and mix gently.
Serve Hot
Add a spoon of ghee on top before serving.
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Tips for a Perfect Khichdi
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Adjust the water based on the texture you prefer.
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Add vegetables like peas or carrots if you want a fuller meal.
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Serve with papad, curd, or pickle for a complete winter comfort plate.
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Nutrition Snapshot per Serving
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Nutrient |
Amount |
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Calories |
~320 kcal |
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Protein |
10g |
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Carbohydrates |
42g |
|
Fat |
11g |
|
Fiber |
4g |
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FAQ
Q: Can I use basmati rice for Khichdi?
You can, but short grain rice gives the creamy finish Khichdi is known for.
Q: Can I make Khichdi in an Instant Pot?
Yes. It cooks beautifully and saves time.
Q: What toppings work best?
Ghee is essential. Fresh coriander or fried garlic also work well.
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Final Thought
Khichdi is one of those dishes that brings instant comfort. For Indian families living in Europe, it carries the warmth of home and the familiarity of childhood meals. With Dookan, preparing a bowl of wholesome Khichdi becomes easier than ever. From Tirupati Moong Dal to Sona Masoori Rice and fresh ghee, everything you need arrives at your door.
Comfort food should always feel within reach. With Dookan, it truly is.
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