Brown rice khichdi with moong dal combines the earthy goodness of whole grains and lentils with the richness of ghee and Indian spices. It’s a light yet filling one-pot meal that boosts energy, supports digestion, and keeps you full longer, perfect for a weekday lunch or a cosy dinner.
Rinse the brown rice and moong dal well under running water to remove excess starch. Soak them together in enough water for about 30 minutes. This helps them cook faster and gives the khichdi a soft, melt-in-mouth texture while retaining their earthy flavour.
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Step 2: Heat the Ghee and Spices
Place a pressure cooker on medium flame and add ghee. Once warm, toss in cumin seeds, asafoetida, cloves, and black peppercorns. The tempering releases a warm, nutty aroma that forms the base of the khichdi’s flavour. Sauté gently until the spices turn fragrant.
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Step 3: Add Rice and Dal Mixture
Add the drained rice and moong dal into the tempered ghee and spices. Sprinkle in turmeric powder and stir everything together for a minute. Coating the grains in ghee before adding water prevents them from sticking and gives the khichdi a rich taste.
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Step 4: Cook Under Pressure
Pour in 3 cups of water and add salt. Stir well, close the lid, and cook on medium flame for 4 whistles. The brown rice will absorb the aromatic flavours of the spices while the moong dal turns creamy, creating a balanced, protein-rich base.
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Step 5: Adjust the Consistency
Once the pressure releases naturally, open the lid and stir the khichdi. If you prefer a softer or slightly soupy texture, add ¾ cup of hot water and simmer for 2 minutes. This gives it a comforting porridge-like feel that’s easy to digest and ideal for all ages.
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Step 6: Serve Warm
Transfer the khichdi to a serving bowl and drizzle a spoonful of ghee on top. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. The ghee enhances the aroma and adds a silky finish that complements the nutty taste of brown rice.