Lucy Found
If you have heard about Āyurveda, you have likely heard about kitchari! Kitchari means two grains; commonly a mix of rice and mung beans. There are so many different recipes for kitchari and my personal favourite is this one from my teacher Dr. Vsant Lad.
Kitchari is both nourishing and a digestive aid, its light quality making kitchari a food used in mono diets and cleanses. Kitchari can be eaten any time however don’t just change out all meals for kitchari, āyurveda promotes moderation and wholeness as a pathway to rejuvenation. During a cleanse or panchakarma, kitchari is commonly used to kindle agni (digestive fire) and pacify dosha. If you are interested in an individualised āyurvedic cleanse, please book in to see Lucy for an Initial Consultation. Click here for bookings.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup basmati rice
1 cup moong dal (split yellow)
6 cups water (half if using a pressure cooker)
1 inch ginger root, chopped or grated
1/4 tsp. mineral salt
2 tsp. ghee
1/2 tsp. coriander powder
1 tsp. cumin
1/2 tsp. mustard seeds
1/2 tsp. turmeric powder
1 pinch asafoetida (hing)
Handful of fresh chopped cilantro leaves
1 and 1/2 cups assorted vegetables (optional)
Vegetables: zucchini, sweet potato, peas, carrot, asparagus, broccoli, pumpkin (1 or 2 vegetables is a good amount)
Method:
1. Wash rice and dal separately in at least 2 changes of water, leave to soak while spices and vegetables are prepared
2. Sauté the mustard seeds cumin and ginger in the ghee until the mustard seeds pop, then add the coriander powder, asafoetida, turmeric and cook for another minute
3. Once the herbs have begun to release their aroma, add the chopped vegetables and saute for another minute or two
4. Drain the rice and lentils and add them to the pot, stirring though until all ingredients are combined
5. Add water and bring to the boil, then simmer covered until the lentils are soft (about 20 – 30 minutes)
6. Add the mineral salt and chopped fresh cilantro and serve with a squeeze of lime and cracked pepper.
Invest in a thermos so you can take your kitchari with you for lunch!