How To Make Khichdi Pakistani

 How To Make Khichdi Pakistani

Khichdi, a popular comfort food in many South Asian countries, including Pakistan, is a simple yet nutritious dish made with rice and lentils. Here's a basic recipe for Pakistani-style Khichdi:

### Ingredients:

- 1 cup basmati rice

- 1/2 cup split yellow moong dal (lentils)

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 1 tomato, chopped

- 2-3 green chilies, slit (adjust according to your spice preference)

- 1-inch piece ginger, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

- Salt to taste

- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil

- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

### Instructions:

1. **Preparation:**

   - Wash the basmati rice and moong dal separately under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak them in water for about 15-20 minutes, then drain.

2. **Cooking:**

   - In a heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker, heat ghee or oil over medium heat.

   - Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

   - Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.

   - Add minced garlic, chopped ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.

   - Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and mushy.

   - Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.

   - Add soaked and drained rice and moong dal to the pot. Stir to coat them with the spices.

   - Add 4 cups of water (adjust according to your preferred consistency). Stir well.

   - If using a pressure cooker, close the lid and cook for 3-4 whistles or until the rice and dal are cooked through. If using a regular pot, cover with a lid and simmer until the rice and dal are soft and cooked, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. **Serve:**

   - Once the khichdi is cooked, remove it from heat.

   - Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.

   - Serve hot with a dollop of ghee on top and lemon wedges on the side for a tangy flavor (optional).

Enjoy your comforting and nutritious Pakistani-style Khichdi!

You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like carrots, peas, or potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.