Kitchree
Kitchree is a hearty, comforting dish combining rice, lentils, and vegetables with warming spices, perfect for a wholesome vegetarian meal full of flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the red lentils for 30 minutes.
- Heat oil and fry mustard seeds until they jump.
- Add cumin seeds, green chili, garlic, ginger, chopped onion, and cinnamon stick; cook for a few minutes.
- Add turmeric and cauliflower; cook for 10 minutes.
- Drain the lentils and add them to the pot with some butter; stir well.
- Add rice and water, then bring to a simmer.
- Cover and cook until the rice and lentils are tender, adding more water if needed.
- When almost done, add salt and cook a little longer.
- Optional: stir in lemon juice, chopped green coriander, and sweetened coconut before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting ghee for butter, and feel free to use any type of lentils if red lentils are unavailable. You can also add vegetables like peas or carrots to enhance nutrition. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of green chili. This Kitchree can be made vegan by omitting butter, making it a great option for vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Kitchree hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. It pairs beautifully with Indian Pudding(Diabetic Recipe) or a side of yogurt. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of pickles or a fresh salad to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Kitchree in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kitchree contains roughly 626 calories, with 19g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (50% of the Daily Value), and protein (38% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 900mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Kitchree ahead of time?
Absolutely! Kitchree can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. Just be sure to reheat it gently, adding a little water if it seems dry. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or busy weeknights.
What type of rice works best for Kitchree?
Short-grain rice is traditionally used for Kitchree, as it becomes sticky and creamy when cooked. However, you can also use basmati rice for a fluffier texture. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the rice type used.
Is Kitchree suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, Kitchree is naturally gluten-free as it is made with rice and lentils. Just ensure that any additional ingredients, like spices or store-bought items, are certified gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).