Kitchari

Simple Rejuvenative Kitchari

In general, Kitchari is the standard diet for any time you wish to give your digestion a break.  Properly prepared, this dish is easy to digest and provides proper nutrition to the body. The combination of basmati rice with dal (mung beans) makes a complete balanced protein. Typically served as a midday meal, this dish does not take long to cook and is delicious and satisfying. While kitchari is most often prepared with mung beans, it can also be made with lentils.

In the preparation of kitchari, the “dal” or beans are soaked for at least one hour. For cleansing, it is best to soak everything overnight.

Makes 2 generous servings

½ cup Basmati Rice

½ cup split mung dal beans with skins

3 cups of water, for cooking

1 chopped large carrot or medium sweet potato

¼ cup organic unsweetened coconut flakes

¾ tsp rock salt (Himalayan Salt is a good rock salt)

½ tsp cumin seeds

½ tsp black mustard seeds

pinch of hing (asafoetida)

½ tsp ground turmeric powder

2 tbs ghee (or butter)

wedge of fresh lemon or lime

Combine the rice and dal in large bowl and add enough water to cover. Soak for 1 hour. (Best if soaked overnight) Drain, wash and rinse the mixture. Place in a crock pot or rice cooker and add the of water, veggies, spices and the salt. Cover tightly and turn on crock pot to low for longer cooking or high for quicker timing.

Once finished cooking, stir in the ghee or butter. Squeeze lemon or lime over. Let cool slightly and serve. Adjust salt for taste.