Dinner

Healing Kitchari Recipe

BySimon Carel January 3, 2026January 3, 2026

Introduction

Kitchari is a comforting, nourishing one-pot meal popular in Ayurvedic cooking. This healing kitchari recipe combines wholesome spices, moong dal, rice, and vegetables into a simple, creamy stew that is easy to digest and perfect for cleansing or everyday eating.

A bowl filled with a thick, yellow dal that has a soft, grainy texture, topped with a swirl of white creamy sauce that contrasts smoothly with the dal's vibrant color. On the surface, there is a small sprinkle of red chili flakes and black mustard seeds, adding small specks of color. Garnishing includes fresh green cilantro leaves scattered lightly and a wedge of lime resting on the side. A gold spoon is scooping some dal from the bowl, which rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 tablespoons coconut oil
1 ½ tablespoons minced fresh ginger
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon fennel seeds
1 teaspoon brown mustard seeds
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 cup moong dal (split mung beans)
½ cup basmati rice
1–2 cups finely chopped vegetables (e.g., gold potatoes, cauliflower, carrots)
5–6 cups water (less for thicker stew, more for thinner)
1–1 ½ teaspoons salt, adjust to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot, melt the coconut oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced ginger and sauté for 30 seconds.
Step 2: Add the fennel, cumin, and mustard seeds. Sauté for 30–40 seconds until the spices release their fragrance.
Step 3: Stir in the ground coriander and turmeric. Cook, stirring, for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the moong dal, basmati rice, chopped vegetables, water, and salt to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice and dal are very tender and begin to break down, forming a creamy consistency.
Step 6: Serve hot with optional toppings such as fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lemon, and enjoy your healing kitchari.

Tips & Variations

Try adding different vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or pumpkin depending on season and preference.
For a vegan option with extra protein, consider garnishing with toasted nuts or seeds.
If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more water during cooking; for a thicker stew, use less.
Adjust the salt and spices to taste to suit your dietary needs and flavor preference.

Storage

Store leftover kitchari in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pot over low heat, stirring and adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the consistency. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A bowl filled with thick, yellow lentil stew with a creamy texture, showing small pieces of orange vegetables mixed in. On top, there is a white creamy dollop in the center, sprinkled with small red chili flakes. Fresh green cilantro leaves are placed on top near the cream and a bright green lime wedge rests on the edge of the bowl. A golden spoon is placed inside the bowl, sinking slightly into the lentil stew. The bowl is white and sits on a soft light-gray cloth on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of lentils instead of moong dal?

Moong dal is preferred because it cooks quickly and breaks down easily, creating a creamy texture. Other lentils can be used but may require longer cooking times and may not yield the same consistency.

Is kitchari suitable for all dietary needs?

Yes, kitchari is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. It is gentle on the digestive system, making it suitable for many dietary preferences and health conditions.