Easy Palak Dal Khichdi for a Wholesome Meal

Palak Dal Khichdi is a nutritious and comforting one-pot meal that combines the goodness of lentils, rice, and spinach. It’s not only easy to make but also packed with essential nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a wholesome and balanced meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious lunch option, this Palak Dal Khichdi recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients for Palak Dal Khichdi

• 1 cup rice (preferably basmati), rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes
• 1/2 cup split yellow moong dal (yellow lentils), rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes
• 2 cups spinach (palak), finely chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Palak Dal Khichdi

Step 1: Prepare the Lentils and Rice

1. Rinse and Soak: Rinse the rice and moong dal under cold water until the water runs clear. Then, soak them in water for 30 minutes. This helps to soften the lentils and rice, reducing the cooking time.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

2. Heat Ghee or Oil: In a pressure cooker or large pot, heat ghee or oil over medium heat.
3. Add Cumin Seeds: Once the ghee is hot, add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
4. Sauté Onions: Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until they turn translucent.
5. Add Ginger-Garlic and Green Chilies: Add grated ginger, minced garlic, and slit green chilies to the pot. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Spinach

6. Add Chopped Spinach: Add the finely chopped spinach to the pot and cook until it wilts down.

Step 4: Add Spices

7. Add Tomatoes: Add chopped tomatoes to the pot and cook until they turn soft and mushy.
8. Add Spices: Add turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and garam masala to the pot. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.

Step 5: Cook the Khichdi

9. Drain and Add Lentils and Rice: Drain the soaked rice and moong dal and add them to the pot. Stir well to coat the lentils and rice with the spices and vegetables.
10. Add Water and Salt: Add 4 cups of water and salt to taste to the pot. Stir well.
11. Pressure Cook: Close the pressure cooker lid and cook on medium heat for 3-4 whistles, or cook in a pot until the lentils and rice are fully cooked and soft. If cooking in a pot, you may need to add more water and cook covered until done.

Step 6: Serve

12. Garnish and Serve: Once the khichdi is cooked, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips for Making Palak Dal Khichdi

1. Consistency: Adjust the amount of water according to your desired consistency. Some prefer a thicker khichdi, while others prefer it to be more porridge-like.
2. Variations: You can customize this khichdi by adding other vegetables like carrots, peas, or potatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
3. Texture: For a smoother texture, you can blend the spinach with the tomatoes before adding them to the pot.
4. Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your spice preference. You can also add a pinch of red chili powder for extra heat.
5. Serve with: Palak Dal Khichdi pairs well with yogurt, pickle, or raita on the side for added flavor and creaminess.

Health Benefits of Palak Dal Khichdi

1. Rich in Protein: Moong dal is a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
2. High in Fiber: Spinach and lentils are rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
3. Nutrient-Dense: This khichdi is packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, iron, and potassium, contributing to overall health and well-being.
4. Low in Calories: Palak Dal Khichdi is a filling and satisfying meal option that is relatively low in calories, making it suitable for weight management.

Conclusion

Palak Dal Khichdi is a nutritious and comforting meal that is simple to make and bursting with flavor. With its combination of lentils, rice, and spinach, it provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and vitamins, making it an ideal choice for a wholesome meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking for a quick and nutritious dinner option, this easy Palak Dal Khichdi recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.