Olivia Carter
If you’re craving a warm and comforting meal that is both nutritious and delicious, look no further than arhar dal khichdi. This traditional Indian dish is made with rice, lentils, and a blend of aromatic spices. It’s not only easy to make but also packed with protein and fiber.
To make arhar dal khichdi in a pressure cooker, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes of cooking time. The pressure cooker helps to speed up the cooking process and infuse the flavors together beautifully.
This recipe is perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want to enjoy a wholesome homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prepping or batch cooking, as it can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
Follow along as we guide you through the step-by-step process of making arhar dal khichdi in a pressure cooker. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this comforting and aromatic Indian dish!
Overview of Arhar Dal Khichdi
Arhar Dal Khichdi is a popular and comforting dish in Indian cuisine. It is a one-pot dish made with a combination of rice and pigeon pea lentils (arhar dal), along with various spices and vegetables. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, as it provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins.
Arhar Dal Khichdi is commonly prepared during festivals and is also considered a comfort food during the monsoon season. It is known for its simplicity and ease of preparation, making it a go-to dish for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
The main ingredient, arhar dal or pigeon pea lentils, adds a rich and earthy flavor to the khichdi. It is a good source of dietary fibre and protein, making it a healthy choice for vegetarians and vegans. The lentils also enhance the texture of the dish, giving it a creamy consistency.
The rice acts as a base for the khichdi and provides a light and fluffy texture. It is important to use a short-grain rice variety such as sona masuri or basmati rice to achieve the desired texture.
Health Benefits of Arhar Dal Khichdi
Arhar Dal Khichdi offers several health benefits due to the presence of arhar dal and vegetables. Here are a few:
- Rich in Protein: Arhar dal is a great source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Digestive Aid: The combination of rice and lentils provides dietary fibre, which aids in digestion and keeps the gut healthy.
- Provides Energy: The carbohydrates from rice and lentils provide a good amount of energy, making it an ideal dish for a quick and filling meal.
- Boosts Immunity: The addition of vegetables like carrots, peas, and potatoes provides essential vitamins and minerals, which help in strengthening the immune system.
In conclusion, Arhar Dal Khichdi is a wholesome and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of yogurt, pickle, or papad. It is a versatile dish that can be customized according to taste preferences and dietary restrictions. Whether as a hearty meal for lunch or dinner, Arhar Dal Khichdi is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you nourished.
Benefits of Cooking in a Pressure Cooker
Cooking in a pressure cooker has numerous benefits that make it a popular choice among home cooks and professional chefs alike. Here are some of the advantages of using a pressure cooker:
1. Time-saving:
One of the main benefits of using a pressure cooker is that it cooks food significantly faster than traditional cooking methods. The sealed environment and high pressure allow for higher temperatures which reduce cooking time by up to 70%. This is especially beneficial for busy individuals who are short on time but still want to enjoy delicious meals.
2. Energy-efficient:
Pressure cookers are incredibly energy-efficient as they require less time and energy to reach the desired cooking temperature. The faster cooking time means less time spent on the stove, resulting in lower energy consumption. This not only helps the environment but also saves on electricity or gas bills.
3. Retains nutrients:
Unlike other cooking methods that can lead to nutrient loss, pressure cooking helps retain the natural flavors, vitamins, and minerals present in food. The shorter cooking time and minimal exposure to air and heat ensure that the nutrients are preserved, resulting in healthier and more nutritious meals.
4. Enhanced flavors:
Pressure cooking allows flavors to infuse and intensify, resulting in more flavorful dishes. The high pressure and temperature help break down tough fibers, making meats and vegetables tender and full of flavor. Additionally, the sealed environment prevents the escape of aromatic compounds, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
5. Versatile and convenient:
Pressure cookers are incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of cooking tasks. From cooking rice, beans, and lentils to making stews, soups, and desserts, a pressure cooker can handle it all. It eliminates the need for multiple pots and pans, making it a convenient tool for busy kitchens.
In conclusion, cooking in a pressure cooker offers several benefits, including time-saving, energy-efficiency, nutrient retention, enhanced flavors, and versatility. Investing in a pressure cooker can revolutionize your cooking experience and help you prepare delicious and healthy meals with ease.
Ingredients
- 1 cup arhar dal (split pigeon peas)
- 1 cup rice
- 3 cups water
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- 2 green chillies, slit
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
Optional:
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Basic Ingredients
To make Arhar Dal Khichdi in a pressure cooker, you will need the following key ingredients:
1. Arhar Dal (Split Pigeon Peas)
The main ingredient of this dish is arhar dal, also known as split pigeon peas. It is a staple ingredient in Indian cuisine and provides a rich source of protein and dietary fiber.
2. Rice
Rice is used as a base ingredient in khichdi. You can use any kind of rice, but the most commonly used variety is basmati rice, which adds a unique flavor and aroma to the dish.
3. Ghee or Oil
Ghee, which is clarified butter, is traditionally used in Indian cooking. It adds a rich and buttery taste to the khichdi. However, you can also use vegetable oil if you prefer a lighter flavor.
4. Cumin Seeds
Cumin seeds are widely used in Indian cuisine for their distinct flavor and aroma. They are typically added to hot oil or ghee at the beginning of the cooking process to release their flavors.
5. Whole Spices
Various whole spices such as cloves, cinnamon, and bay leaves are used to enhance the flavor of the khichdi. These spices are typically roasted in hot oil or ghee before adding the rice and dal.
6. Ginger and Garlic
Ginger and garlic add a depth of flavor and a hint of spiciness to the khichdi. They are usually crushed or minced and sautéed along with the whole spices.
7. Green Chilies
Green chilies provide a spicy kick to the khichdi. The amount of chilies can be adjusted according to your preference for spiciness.
8. Vegetables
Khichdi can be made with or without vegetables. Commonly used vegetables include onions, tomatoes, peas, carrots, and potatoes. They add nutrition and a burst of color to the dish.
9. Turmeric Powder
Turmeric powder is added to give khichdi a beautiful yellow color. It also has numerous health benefits and is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
10. Salt and Spices
Lastly, salt and spices such as red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala are added to enhance the taste of the khichdi. The amount of spices can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.
With these basic ingredients, you can easily prepare a delicious and nutritious Arhar Dal Khichdi in a pressure cooker. So gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
Optional Ingredients
In addition to the main ingredients for arhar dal khichdi, you can also include some optional ingredients to enhance the flavor and taste of the dish.
1. Vegetables
You can add chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, beans, or bell peppers to the khichdi. These vegetables not only add nutrition to the dish but also give a nice crunch and color.
2. Spices
If you like your khichdi to have a spicy kick, you can add spices like red chili powder, garam masala, or turmeric powder. These spices will add a delightful flavor to the dish.
Remember to adjust the quantity of spices according to your taste preference.
By adding these optional ingredients, you can customize your arhar dal khichdi and make it even more delicious and healthy.
Preparation
Before starting the process of making arhar dal khichdi in a pressure cooker, gather all the required ingredients. Here is a list of ingredients you will need:
- 1 cup arhar dal (split pigeon peas)
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tomato, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
- Salt to taste
- 4 cups water
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnishing
Once you have gathered all the ingredients, follow these steps to prepare the arhar dal khichdi:
- Wash the arhar dal and rice together under running water until the water runs clear.
- Soak the washed arhar dal and rice in water for 10-15 minutes and then drain the water.
- Heat ghee in a pressure cooker and add cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add the slit green chilies and ginger-garlic paste. Sauté for a minute.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft.
- Now add the soaked and drained arhar dal and rice.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Add water and give it a final stir.
- Cover the pressure cooker with its lid and cook the khichdi on medium heat for 3-4 whistles.
- Once the pressure is released, open the lid of the pressure cooker and garnish the khichdi with fresh coriander leaves.
- Mix everything well and arhar dal khichdi is ready to be served.
Enjoy the delicious and nutritious arhar dal khichdi with a side of yogurt, pickle, or papad!
Step 1: Washing and Soaking Arhar Dal
Before you start making Arhar Dal Khichdi, it’s important to wash and soak the arhar dal (split yellow pigeon peas) to remove any impurities.
What you will need:
- 1 cup arhar dal (split yellow pigeon peas)
- Water
Follow these steps to wash and soak the arhar dal:
- Rinse the arhar dal under running water to remove any dust or dirt.
- Transfer the washed dal to a bowl or container.
- Add enough water to completely cover the dal.
- Let the dal soak for at least 30 minutes. Soaking the dal helps in the cooking process and makes it easier to digest.
Once the dal is soaked, you can proceed to the next step of making Arhar Dal Khichdi.
Step 2: Preparing Rice
After soaking the arhar dal, it’s time to prepare the rice for the khichdi. Follow these steps to ensure perfectly cooked rice:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp ghee
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Wash the rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear.
- Soak the washed rice in water for about 20 minutes. This will help in getting fluffy rice.
- Drain the soaked rice and keep it aside.
- Heat ghee in the pressure cooker and add cumin seeds. Allow them to crackle.
- Add the drained rice to the pressure cooker and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
- Add turmeric powder and salt to taste. Mix well.
- Add water to the pressure cooker and give it a stir.
- Close the pressure cooker with the lid and cook on high heat until the first whistle.
- Reduce the heat to low and cook for another 2-3 whistles.
- Turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally.
- Once the pressure has released, open the cooker and fluff the rice gently with a fork.
- The rice is now ready to be combined with the cooked arhar dal to make delicious arhar dal khichdi.
Now that you have prepared the rice, let’s move on to the next step of combining it with the cooked arhar dal.
Step 3: Chopping Vegetables
Once you have gathered all the ingredients for your Arhar Dal Khichdi, it’s time to chop the vegetables.
Start by washing and peeling the 1 onion, 1 tomato, and 1 green chili. Then, finely chop the onion and tomato. You can also slit the green chili if you prefer a milder taste.
Next, peel and dice the 2 medium-sized potatoes and 1 medium-sized carrot. Aim for small, evenly-sized pieces for even cooking.
Finally, chop the 2 tablespoons of coriander leaves for garnishing. Remember to wash the coriander leaves before chopping.
Once all the vegetables are chopped, you are ready to move on to the next step of cooking your delicious Arhar Dal Khichdi.
FAQ
What is arhar dal khichdi?
Arhar dal khichdi is a popular Indian dish made with lentils (arhar dal) and rice, cooked together with various spices and vegetables. It is a one-pot meal that is easy to make and is highly nutritious.
Can I use any other lentils instead of arhar dal?
Yes, you can use other lentils like moong dal or masoor dal instead of arhar dal. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the lentil you choose to use.
How long does it take to cook arhar dal khichdi in a pressure cooker?
It usually takes about 15-20 minutes to cook arhar dal khichdi in a pressure cooker, including the time for the cooker to come to pressure. However, the time may vary depending on the quality of the dal and rice, as well as the desired consistency.
