Palak Khichdi Recipe: A healthy and flavorful twist to the traditional dal khichdi, this dish incorporates the goodness of spinach, offering both taste and nutrition. It serves as a delightful alternative to the regular khichdi, providing essential fiber and protein for a balanced meal. Suitable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this recipe adds a vibrant green hue and a distinct flavor to the dish.
While I’ve shared several khichdi recipes on my blog, this Palak Khichdi stands out for its unique addition of spinach leaves. Unlike my other recipes that typically feature moong dal or other grains, this one infuses the dish with the earthy essence of spinach. While my personal favorite remains the simple khichdi, especially on days when I need something light for digestion, Palak Dal Khichdi can be a lifesaver, especially during busy mornings as a lunchbox option.
Though the recipe is straightforward, here are a few tips:
- Opt for Sona Masuri rice for its ability to create a mushier texture compared to premium rice like basmati.
- Use pureed spinach leaves directly in the pressure-cooked moong dal and rice mixture. Alternatively, finely chop spinach and add it to the combination.
- Serve the Palak Dal Khichdi hot. If reheating later, add some water before microwaving and mix well before serving.
Ingredients: Palak Khichdi Recipe
For Pressure Cooking:
- ½ cup rice, washed
- ½ cup moong dal, washed
- ¼ tsp turmeric powder
- 3 cups water
For Khichdi:
- 1 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 2 pods cardamom
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 dried red chili
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- ½ tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 green chili, slit
- 1 tomato, finely chopped
- Handful of spinach leaves
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions: Palak Khichdi Recipe
- Heat ghee in a pan and sauté cumin seeds, cardamom, cinnamon, bay leaf, and dried red chili.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and green chili.
- Add chopped tomato and cook until soft and mushy.
- Add spinach puree and cook for about 5 minutes until the spinach changes color.
- Add the pressure-cooked rice and moong dal.
- Pour in 1 cup of water and add salt.
- Simmer and cook for 5 minutes until the khichdi absorbs the flavors of spinach.
- Serve hot, optionally topped with more ghee.
Conclusion:
Palak Khichdi Recipe is a wholesome and delicious dish that offers a perfect blend of taste and nutrition. With its vibrant green color, unique flavor, and myriad health benefits, it’s no wonder that Palak Khichdi has become a favorite among health-conscious foodies. Whether you’re a fan of traditional comfort food or looking to add more greens to your diet, Palak Khichdi is sure to delight your taste buds and nourish your body. So, give it a try and experience the goodness of this delightful spinach-infused dish!
FAQs about Palak Khichdi Recipe
What is Palak Khichdi?
Palak Khichdi is a healthy and flavorful dish that combines spinach (palak) with the traditional Indian comfort food, khichdi. It’s made by cooking rice and lentils (usually moong dal) together with spinach puree and aromatic spices.
How is Palak Khichdi different from regular Khichdi?
Palak Khichdi differs from regular khichdi by incorporating spinach puree into the dish, giving it a vibrant green color and adding a unique flavor. While traditional khichdi is typically made with just rice, lentils, and basic spices, palak khichdi offers an extra dose of nutrition from the spinach.
What are the health benefits of Palak Khichdi?
Palak Khichdi is not only delicious but also nutritious. Spinach is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while lentils provide protein and fiber. Together, they make a wholesome meal that aids digestion, boosts immunity, and promotes overall well-being.
Can I customize Palak Khichdi according to my taste preferences?
Yes, Palak Khichdi is quite versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer green chilies, tailor the consistency by varying the amount of water, and even add other vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition and flavor.
Is Palak Khihdi suitable for all meals?
Absolutely! Palak Khichdi can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Its comforting and nutritious qualities make it a perfect meal choice for any time of the day. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast option, a light lunch, or a satisfying dinner, Palak Khichdi fits the bill.
