DELICIOUS BAJRA KHICHDI FOR BREAKFAST
5/5
Bajra Khichdi is a traditional Indian dish made with bajra (pearl millet) and moong dal (split green gram). It is a nutritious and wholesome breakfast option that is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Bajra is rich in dietary fiber, protein, and minerals like iron, magnesium, and phosphorus. Moong dal adds additional protein and makes the khichdi light and easy to digest.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup bajra (pearl millet)
- 1/2 cup moong dal (split green gram)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, finely chopped
- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or oil
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS
- Rinse the bajra and moong dal separately under running water. Soak them in enough water for 4-5 hours or overnight.
- After soaking, drain the water from both the bajra and moong dal and keep them aside.
- Heat ghee or oil in a pressure cooker or a deep pan.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add grated ginger, minced garlic (if using), and green chilies. Sauté for a minute.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.
- Add turmeric powder and salt. Mix well.
- Add the drained bajra and moong dal to the cooker or pan. Mix everything together.
- Add 2 cups of water and give it a stir. Adjust the water quantity based on your desired consistency.
- Close the pressure cooker lid and cook on medium flame for about 5-6 whistles. If using a pan, cover and cook until the bajra and moong dal are soft and cooked.
- Once the pressure is released, open the cooker and give the khichdi a gentle stir. If it looks too thick, you can add a little hot water to adjust the consistency.
- Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot Bajra Khichdi with yogurt, pickle, or raita of your choice.
TIPS
- You can add vegetables like carrots, peas, or beans to the khichdi to make it more nutritious and flavorful.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer green chilies based on your preference.
- If you don’t have a pressure cooker, you can cook the khichdi in a deep pan. Just make sure to cover and cook until the bajra and moong dal are tender.
- You can replace ghee with oil for a vegan version of the khichdi.
- Serve the Bajra Khichdi hot for a comforting and wholesome breakfast. Enjoy it with a side of yogurt, pickle, or any other accompaniment of your choice.
NUTRITION VALUE
The nutrition value of Bajra Khichdi may vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used. However, in general, Bajra Khichdi is a nutritious dish that is high in dietary fiber, protein, and essential minerals. It is also gluten-free and low in fat.
