Khichdi – A desi superfood packed with nutrients

khichdi, is a popular dish in India that is made with rice and lentils. It is a nutritious and easy-to-digest meal, making it an ideal food for babies. Kichdi can be prepared in many different

ways, but the key is to use ingredients that are healthy and packed with nutrients that babies need for their growth and development.

Here are some tips for making nutritious kichdi for babies:

1. Choose the right rice: Choose a good quality rice. I usually use the zebra basmati rice.

2. Use lentils: Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, which are essential for a baby’s growth and development. You can use different types of lentils like moong dal, toor

dal, or chana dal to make kichdi.

3. Add vegetables: Adding vegetables to kichdi not only makes it more nutritious but also adds flavor and texture to the dish. You can add vegetables like carrots, peas, spinach etc. This a good way of introducing vegetables in their diet.

4. Use ghee: Ghee is a healthy fat that is essential for a baby’s brain development. It also aids in digestion and boosts immunity. You can add a spoon of ghee to the kichdi

while cooking. You can also top it with a spoon of ghee before serving. Mehr loves ghee on her khichdi.

5. Add spices: Spices not only add flavor to the kichdi but also have many health benefits. You can add spices like cumin, turmeric, ginger, or coriander to the kichdi. These spices

aid in digestion, boost immunity, and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Here’s a simple recipe for making kichdi for babies:

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup rice

• 1/4 cup moong dal ( or green moong split)

• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, spinach)

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric

• 1/2 teaspoon ginger paste

• 1 tablespoon ghee

• Salt to taste

Method:

1. Wash and soak the rice and moong dal in water for 30 minutes.

2. In a pressure cooker, heat ghee and add cumin seeds.

3. Once the cumin seeds crackle, add turmeric and ginger paste.

4. Add the mixed vegetables and sauté for a minute.

5. Drain the water from the rice and moong dal and add them to the cooker.

6. Add 2 cups of water and salt to taste.

7. Pressure cook for 3-4 whistles on medium flame.

8. Once the pressure releases, open the cooker and mash the kichdi with a spoon, if needed.

9. Serve warm with a dollop of ghee.

In conclusion, khichdi is a nutritious and easy-to-digest meal for babies. Please share a your experience in the comment section, if you make khichdi for your baby. Always consult with your pediatrician before introducing any new foods to your baby’s diet.