Kitchari is a traditional Indian dish made with rice and lentils, and it is known for its delicious flavor and numerous health benefits. It is a one-pot meal that is easy to make and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. There are various ways to cook kitchari, but in this article, we will focus on making kitchari in a rice cooker. This method is particularly convenient as it requires less effort and allows you to get the perfect texture every time. Follow this step-by-step guide to make a flavorful and nutritious kitchari in a rice cooker.
Gather the Ingredients
Before you begin, it is essential to collect all the necessary ingredients. For a basic kitchari recipe, you will need 1 cup of basmati rice, 1 cup of split yellow moong lentils (also known as mung dal), 4 cups of water, 1 tablespoon of ghee or oil, 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds, 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds, 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin powder, 1 teaspoon of coriander powder, a pinch of asafoetida (hing), and salt to taste. You can also add vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach to make it more nutritious.
Prepare the Rice Cooker
The first step is to prepare your rice cooker. Clean the rice cooker pot thoroughly and make sure there are no residues from the previous cooking. Once clean, you need to lightly grease the pot with a thin layer of ghee or cooking oil. This will prevent the kitchari from sticking to the bottom while cooking.
Wash and Soak the Lentils
Start by washing the lentils under running water until the water runs clear. This step helps to remove any dirt or impurities from the lentils. Once clean, soak the lentils in water for about 30 minutes. Soaking the lentils not only helps to reduce the cooking time but also aids in better digestion.
Prepare the Rice and Lentil Mixture
After soaking, drain the lentils and rinse them once again. Now, it’s time to prepare the rice and lentil mixture. Add the washed rice, soaked lentils, water, and salt into the rice cooker pot. Give it a gentle stir so that the salt is distributed evenly. You can also add any vegetables of your choice at this stage.
Tempering the Spices
Now comes the flavoring part. In a small pan, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until they start to splutter. Then add the asafoetida (hing), followed by the turmeric powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder. Stir the spices for about 30 seconds, taking care not to burn them.
Add the Tempering to the Rice Cooker
Once the spices are fragrant, carefully pour the tempered mixture into the rice cooker pot. Give it a gentle stir to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed. Close the rice cooker lid securely.
Cooking the Kitchari
Now, it’s time to cook the kitchari. Set the rice cooker to the “Cook” mode and let it do its magic. The cooking time may vary depending on your rice cooker, but it typically takes around 20-30 minutes for the kitchari to be ready. During this time, you can prepare any accompanying side dishes or enjoy a cup of herbal tea.
Check for Doneness
Once the cooking time is complete, open the rice cooker and check the kitchari for doneness. The rice and lentils should be soft and well-cooked. If you prefer a more mushy consistency, you can cook it for a few more minutes. If the kitchari appears dry, you can add a little more water and stir it gently.
Serve and Enjoy
Finally, your delicious kitchari is ready to be enjoyed. Garnish it with fresh cilantro leaves and serve it hot with a side of plain yogurt, pickle, or papadum. Kitchari can be a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it as a side dish with other Indian delicacies like curry or roasted vegetables.
Cleaning the Rice Cooker
After you have finished your meal, it is important to clean the rice cooker promptly to maintain its longevity. Allow the pot to cool down and then wash it with warm soapy water. Clean the rice cooker thoroughly, making sure to remove any food particles or spices stuck to the pot. Dry it completely before storing it.
Conclusion
Making kitchari in a rice cooker is a simple and convenient way to enjoy this nutritious Indian dish. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can prepare a wholesome meal that is packed with flavors and health benefits. So, next time you are in the mood for some delicious comfort food, give this step-by-step guide a try and savor the goodness of homemade kitchari.