Cleanse Kichari
Kitchari is a classic Ayurvedic dish that is considered to be easy to digest and nourishing for the body. It is used as a cleansing and detoxifying meal. The ghee and spices used in this recipe provide warmth and digestive support, while the turmeric and asafoetida have anti-inflammatory properties. This recipe is perfect for dinner or lunch.
Ingredients for 3 servings:
1 tsp black mustard seeds
3/4 tsp ajwain (celery seeds)
1 tsp cumin seeds
3 small curry leaves
3 cloves
2 flat tbsp ghee
3/4 cup white basmati rice, well washed
3/4 cup red lentils or mung beans, well washed
1 tsp turmeric
Pinch of asafetida
4.5 cups clean water
Fresh coriander (cilantro), for garnish
Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the ghee. Allow it to melt.
Add the black mustard seeds, ajwain (celery seeds), cumin seeds, curry leaves, and cloves to the pot. Sauté them for a minute or until the mustard seeds start to pop.
Add the washed basmati rice and lentils (or mung beans) to the pot. Stir them for a couple of minutes to coat them with the spices.
Sprinkle turmeric and asafetida over the rice and lentils. Mix everything together to distribute the spices evenly.
Pour in the clean water and stir well. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Once it comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice and lentils are cooked and soft. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the kichari is cooked, remove it from the heat. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed.
Serve the Ayurvedic Cleansing Kichari hot. Garnish each serving with fresh coriander and a squeeze of lime juice.
