Khichri - Indian Comfort Rice and Lentil Bowl | CookOS

Khichri

Name: Khichri - Indian Comfort Rice and Lentil Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 cup split urad dal (lentils); 1 cup Basmati rice; ¼ cup ghee (clarified butter); 1 cup frozen peas; 1½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp asafetida; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground turmeric; 2 tsp coriander; cilantro for garnish

Khichri is a traditional Indian one-pot dish combining split urad dal and basmati rice with warm spices like turmeric and cumin. Its soft, easily digestible texture makes it ideal for nourishing meals and gentle on the stomach.

🌍Indian 🥗Vegetarian 🥗Gluten-Free 🏷️Khichdi 🏷️Khichri 🏷️Fall harvest Sukhi's

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Total

40 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Est. Cost

$20–$33

Recipe Source

View original recipe

From Sukhi's Gourmet Indian Foods

Ingredients

1 cup split urad dal (lentils)
1 cup Basmati rice
¼ cup ghee (clarified butter)
1 cup frozen peas
1½ tsp salt
¼ tsp asafetida
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground turmeric
2 tsp coriander
cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

1
Heat ghee in a large pot over medium-high heat
2
Add cumin, asafetida and coriander. Sauté for 20 seconds
3
Add frozen peas and cook for 2-3 minutes
4
Add rice and rinsed lentils
5
Add turmeric and salt, and continue to stir
6
Add water to your pot and bring to a boil for 20 minutes
7
Once fully cooked, uncover and garnish with cilantro
8
Drizzle ghee on top and enjoy hot

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Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Soak the urad dal and basmati rice together for 20–30 minutes before cooking to ensure even softening and reduce overall cooking time.
Toast the cumin and other spices in ghee briefly before adding the dal and rice to release their essential oils and deepen the flavors.
Maintain a gentle simmer throughout cooking; vigorous boiling can break the grains and make the dish mushy rather than creamy and cohesive.
Stir occasionally in the final stages to achieve a porridge-like consistency and prevent sticking on the bottom of the pot.

Substitutions

Split urad dal → split mung dal or toor dal (slight flavor shift, equally digestible)
Basmati rice → jasmine rice (similar texture, slightly different aroma)
Ghee → coconut oil or vegetable oil (dairy-free alternative)
Frozen peas → fresh peas or diced carrot and potato (seasonal vegetable swap)

Storage & make-ahead

Store khichri in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore the creamy texture.

Common Questions

Can I use regular white rice instead of basmati?

Yes, but basmati rice cooks more evenly and has a lighter texture that complements the dal better. Regular rice may result in a mushier dish.

What is asafetida and can I skip it?

Asafetida (hing) is a pungent spice that aids digestion and adds depth. You can omit it, but the dish will lack its traditional flavor and digestive benefits.

How do I know when khichri is done?

Both the dal and rice should be soft and fully cooked, with the mixture creamy and porridge-like. The grains should break easily when pressed.

Can I make khichri ahead of time?

Yes, khichri stores well in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding water to restore the creamy consistency.