Introduction: Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Millet Masoor Dal Khichdi recipe. This wholesome and nourishing dish combines the goodness of millets and masoor dal (red lentils) with aromatic spices, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Join us as we delve into the simple steps to prepare this nutritious and flavorful khichdi that’s sure to warm your soul.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mixed millets (any combination of foxtail millet, little millet, pearl millet, etc.)
• 1/2 cup masoor dal (red lentils), washed and soaked for 30 minutes
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1-2 green chilies, slit lengthwise (adjust to taste)
• 1 tomato, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse and Soak:
   • Rinse the mixed millets and masoor dal under running water until the water runs clear. Soak the masoor dal in water for about 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Millets and Dal:
   • In a pressure cooker or large pot, heat ghee or oil over medium heat.
   • Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
   • Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
   • Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
   • Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.
   • Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and garam masala. Mix well to combine the spices.
   • Add the soaked masoor dal and drained millets to the pot. Stir to coat them with the spice mixture.
   • Pour in water and season with salt according to taste.
   • If using a pressure cooker, close the lid and cook for 3-4 whistles. If using a pot, cover and cook until the millets and dal are soft and cooked through, stirring occasionally. Add more water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
3. Garnish and Serve:
   • Once the pressure releases naturally, open the lid of the pressure cooker.
   • Garnish the Millet Masoor Dal Khichdi with fresh coriander leaves.
   • Serve hot with a dollop of ghee, yogurt, or pickle on the side.
   • Optionally, serve with lemon wedges for an extra tangy kick.

Variations:

• For added nutrition, you can include chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach.
• Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of asafoetida (hing) or a bay leaf during tempering.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of green chilies or adding red chili powder.

Nutritional Information: Millet Masoor Dal Khichdi is a wholesome and balanced meal that’s rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Millets provide complex carbohydrates and essential nutrients, while masoor dal offers protein, iron, and folate. This dish is low in fat and cholesterol, making it a healthy choice for a satisfying meal.

Conclusion: Millet Masoor Dal Khichdi is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. With its hearty combination of millets, lentils, and aromatic spices, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Try making it at home and enjoy the warmth and nourishment of this delicious khichdi with your loved ones.