Ayurvedic Kitchari

Name: Ayurvedic Kitchari
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 29 min
Yield: 4-6
Ingredients: 1 cup moong dal; 1 cup basmati rice; 8 cups water; 3 tbsp ghee; 1 tbsp cumin seeds; 1 tsp fresh minced ginger (or 1/4 tsp ground ginger); 1/2 tsp turmeric; 2 tsp salt; 1-2 sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped; 3-4 carrots, chopped

Holly Stein

Servings

4-6

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

14 minutes

Category

Entrees

If you're looking for a nourishing, easy-to-digest meal rooted in traditional Ayurvedic wisdom, this Ayurvedic Kitchari is a wonderful recipe to keep on hand. Made with basmati rice, moong dal, ghee, warming spices, and nutrient-rich vegetables, kitchari is a comforting one-pot meal known for supporting digestion and providing gentle nourishment. Its soft, porridge-like texture makes it especially ideal for postpartum recovery, meal prep, and freezer cooking, while its simple, whole-food ingredients create a satisfying meal the entire family can enjoy. Whether you're embracing an Ayurvedic lifestyle or simply searching for a healthy, comforting dinner, this classic kitchari recipe is a timeless staple you'll return to again and again.

Ingredients

1 cup moong dal
1 cup basmati rice
8 cups water
3 tbsp ghee
1 tbsp cumin seeds
1 tsp fresh minced ginger (or 1/4 tsp ground ginger)
1/2 tsp turmeric
2 tsp salt
1-2 sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
3-4 carrots, chopped

Directions

Combine rice and moong dal in a large bowl, cover with water, and soak for 15 minutes. After soaking, rinse in a strainer until the water runs clear.
Warm the ghee in a pot over medium-low heat. Add the cumin seeds and cook for about a minute, until fragrant.
Add the ginger and turmeric and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
Add the rice and moong dal, sweet potatoes, carrots, salt, and water.
Increase to medium-high heat and bring to a gentle boil. Turn the heat down and simmer for 30 minutes, uncovered, until you reach a porridge-like consistency. It should be soft and creamy.