Ingredients + Experimentation Notes
How to make Khichdi
This recipe takes into account the state of the person making it. It requires one pot, about 35 minutes of active time, and minimal pantry ingredients. There’s no pre-soaking or fussing, and it’s impossible to mess up. Enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox. Plus, get recipes & tips every week! The secret to making a simple Moong Dal Khichdi taste good is using a bit of broth (or stock) as well as water. Broth adds flavor depth and dimension to what can often be a flat-tasting dish, while water helps keep the homey, nostalgic flavors we love in Khichdi. Whichever texture you prefer, the only difference between both is how much liquid you use during cooking. That’s why I’ve included both options in this recipe—add less water for a drier, pulao-like version, or add more water for a mushier version. And if you want it even softer after cooking, just add boiling water, stir to further break the grains, and let it simmer on low until everything melds together. (I’ve actually witnessed my mother-in-law do this with my drier Khichdi 😭😂!)
Soak Rice + Dal in Warm Water
Brown Onions, Fry Garlic, Ginger, and Cumin
Add Broth/Water and Ground Spices
Boil Together
Steam (Dum) to Finish Cooking
What to Serve with Khichdi
How you serve Khichdi largely depends on whether you’re serving it to someone who is unwell or someone who just wants a warming, cozy meal.
I usually serve with yogurt on the side, but a Mixed Veg Raita or cilantro chutney would also work well for those who can handle it. You could also serve it with achaar (just like dal chawal!) If serving to those who are well, the options are endless. Serve with any curry or main dish that works with rice as a base (except dal 😂). My recipe tester’s mom used to serve with fried homemade onions. Add them after you’ve boiled the Khichdi, right before the steaming/dum stage of cooking.
P.S. A note from the heart – Khichdi is a recipe through which I can clearly see the impact of a recipe website. I have many memories of feeling loved and cared for through Khichdi, and to be able to share a recipe that enables you to nourish yourself and your loved ones, fills my heart with gratitude and joy! 🥲 Tried this recipe? If you have a minute, please consider leaving a comment telling me how it was! You can also take a quick picture and upload it directly into the comments. If you’re on Instagram, please tag me so I can see your creations. I truly love hearing from you. Thank you!
