Khitchari-The Detox & Digestive Miracle!
NAMASTE, MY DEAR FRIENDS!
The best time to detox is when seasons change. Warming spices and foods, in Autumn can calm our senses and aid digestion. Khitchari is an ancient wholesome meal which originated in the Indian subcontinent and has gained popularity across the world.
An uncomplicated, gluten-free, rice and lentil dish, khitchari is easy to digest, is nutritious and tasty!
Khitchari is the perfect ‘cleansing’ meal & easy to digest. Some properties are:
- Simple carbohydrates from rice
- Protein from lentil
- Good fats from ghee
- Anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric and
- Digestive power of spices like asafoetida and cumin
To make this simple Khitchari, you will need:
- 1 cup Basmati Rice
- 1/2 cup (dried yellow split peas/lentil)/Mung Dal
- 5-6 cups water
- 3 tablespoons ghee
- 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of Asafoetida (hing)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (to garnish)
Wash rice and lentil separately with water. Cook them together in a pot with 5-6 cups of water for 20-25 mins-make sure that grains are tender.
Heat ghee in a separate pan, then add asafoetida, turmeric and cumin-watch them sizzle/pop. You can add fresh seasonal veggies, 1 teaspoon chopped ginger as well (optional). Add this spice mixture to cooked rice and lentil and cover the pot.
Stir in salt, garnish with fresh cilantro and extra tsp. of ghee (optional)!
You can follow a 1-day or 3-day only khitchari diet, with different seasonal vegetables. A little bit of planning, moderate activity, and ample hydration will make the cleanse effective and you will start feeling lighter and more energetic!
Please reach out to me with any questions or comments at [email protected].
In peace and gratitude,
Deepti