Masoor Dal Khichdi Recipe – Pakistani Style
Masoor Dal Khichdi is a comforting and flavorful dish, especially popular in Pakistan for its simplicity and nourishing qualities. This one-pot meal is made using masoor dal (red lentils), rice, and a mix of spices, offering a balanced meal rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a hearty lunch, this recipe is easy to prepare and customizable to your taste.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is easy to follow. The savory blend of spices and the soft texture of the rice and lentils will surely satisfy your taste buds. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this comforting Pakistani-style Masoor Dal Khichdi.
Ingredients for Masoor Dal Khichdi
- 1 cup masoor dal (red lentils)
- 1/2 cup rice (washed and drained)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder
- 1/4 tsp hing (asafoetida)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
- 4 cups water
Masoor Dal Khichdi
Rinse the Lentils and Rice
Start by thoroughly rinsing the masoor dal and rice. This will help remove any excess starch from the rice and dirt from the lentils. Drain both ingredients and set them aside.
Prepare the Spices
Heat oil or ghee in a large pot or pressure cooker on medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds, mustard Masoor Dal Khichdi Recipe Pakistani seeds, and a pinch of hing. Let the spices splutter for a few seconds to release their aroma.
Sauté the Onions, Tomatoes, and Green Chilies
Add finely chopped onions to the pot and sauté them until they become golden brown. Then, add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Now, add the chopped tomatoes and green chilies, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes soften and become pulpy.
Add the Spices
Once the tomatoes are soft, add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala to the mixture. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the oil separates from the masala.
Cook the Lentils and Rice
Add the rinsed masoor dal and rice to the pot, followed by 4 cups of water. Stir everything together, ensuring that the dal and rice are well-mixed with the masala.
Pressure Cook
If using a pressure cooker, close the lid and cook on medium heat for about 3-4 whistles, or until the dal and rice are soft and cooked through. If cooking in a regular pot, cover and cook on low heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until both the rice and lentils are soft and tender.
Final Touch
Once cooked, check the consistency. If the Khichdi is too thick, you can add a little water to adjust. Stir the Khichdi gently, making sure everything is combined properly.
Garnish and Serve
Garnish the Khichdi with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot. It pairs wonderfully with yogurt, pickle, or a side of salad.
Masoor Dal Khichdi is not only simple to make but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re craving a light meal or something filling, this dish offers the perfect balance. The combination of masoor dal, rice, and spices creates a savory, comforting dish that is enjoyed by families across Pakistan. So, try this recipe the next time you’re in the mood for a hearty, wholesome meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Masoor Dal Khichdi without rice?
Yes, you can make a lentil-based Khichdi using only masoor dal. Just adjust the water accordingly, and it will still be a healthy, nutritious meal.
2. Is Masoor Dal Khichdi spicy?
The level of spice can be adjusted according to your preference. You can reduce or increase the amount of green chilies and red chili powder to control the heat.
3. How can I make Masoor Dal Khichdi more flavorful?
You can add whole spices like cloves, cardamom, or bay leaves during cooking for an added flavor boost. Also, adding ghee instead of oil can make it more aromatic.
4. Can I store leftover Khichdi?
Yes, you can store the leftover Khichdi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it by adding a little water to restore its consistency.
5. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can cook Masoor Dal Khichdi in a slow cooker for 4-6 hours on low heat. This will allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
