Vegetable Khichdi is one of the most comforting Indian dishes, perfect for dinner when you want something light yet wholesome. Made with rice, lentils, and seasonal vegetables, it is a balanced meal that combines taste with nutrition. Easy to digest and quick to prepare, khichdi is often called the “ultimate comfort food.”

Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

• 1 cup rice (washed and soaked for 20 minutes)


• ½ cup moong dal (split yellow lentils)


• 1 onion (finely chopped)


• 1 tomato (chopped)


• 1 carrot (diced)


• ½ cup peas


• 1 potato (diced)


• 1 green chili (slit)


• 1 tsp ginger paste


• 2 tbsp ghee or oil


• 1 tsp cumin seeds


• 1 bay leaf


• ½ tsp turmeric powder


• 1 tsp red chili powder


• Salt to taste


• 4 cups water


• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Preparation

Step 1: Wash and Soak

• Wash rice and dal together, soak for 20 minutes.


• Drain and keep aside.

Step 2: Prepare Tempering

• Heat ghee/oil in a pressure cooker.


• Add cumin seeds and bay leaf.


• Sauté onion until golden brown.


• Add ginger paste, tomato, and green chili. Cook until soft.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Spices

• Add carrot, peas, and potato.


• Mix in turmeric, red chili powder, and salt.


• Stir well for 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Cook Khichdi

• Add rice and dal mixture.


• Pour 4 cups water and mix well.


• Pressure cook for 3–4 whistles until soft.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Open the cooker once pressure releases.


• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.


• Serve hot with curd, pickle, or papad.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with plain yogurt or raita for a cooling effect.


• Serve with papad and pickle for added crunch and flavor.


• A drizzle of ghee on top enhances taste and aroma.

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein and fiber from lentils and vegetables.


• Easy to digest, making it ideal for dinner.


• Provides balanced nutrition with carbs, protein, and vitamins.

Conclusion

Vegetable Khichdi is the perfect dinner dish when you want something light, healthy, and satisfying. With its blend of rice, dal, and vegetables, it offers both taste and nutrition in one bowl.

FAQ

Q: Can I make khichdi without vegetables?

Yes, plain dal‑khichdi is equally comforting.

Q: Which dal is best for khichdi?

Moong dal is most common, but you can use masoor dal or arhar dal.

Q: Is khichdi good for weight loss?

Yes, it is light, low in fat, and easy to digest.

Q: Can I make khichdi in a pan instead of a cooker?

Yes, but it will take longer to cook.

Q: What is the best side dish with khichdi?

Curd, pickle, and papad are traditional accompaniments.