Healthy Bajarichi Khichdi Recipe | Pearl Millet Khichdi
Learn how to make authentic Bajarichi Khichdi (Pearl Millet Khichdi). A healthy, gluten-free Maharashtrian winter recipe rich in iron and fiber. Easy pressure cooker method!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 bowl Bajra Pearl Millet – Cleaned and washed
- 2 tbsp Yellow Moong Dal Split Green Gram
- 3 cups Water approx. 3 glasses as per consistency preference
For Tempering Tadka:
- 3 tbsp Ghee Clarified Butter – Can substitute with oil
- 1 tsp Cumin Seeds Jeera
- A pinch of Hing Asafoetida
- 7-8 Curry Leaves
Aromatics & Spices:
- 1 tbsp Ginger-Garlic-Green Chilli Paste Crushed coarse paste
- Salt to taste
- Turmeric powder Optional, for colour
Instructions
- Soak the Bajra: Wash the Bajra thoroughly. Soak it in enough water for 12 to 15 hours (preferably overnight). This step is crucial for softening the millet.
- Dry and Crush (Husk Removal): Drain the water completely. Spread the soaked Bajra on a cotton cloth and let it dry slightly (it should remain moist, not bone dry). Transfer it to a mixer jar. Pulse it in short bursts (on-off mode) 2-3 times. Do not grind it into a powder. Winnow the bajra to remove the loose husk (konda) if desired, though the husk is nutritious.
- Prepare the Tempering: Heat a pressure cooker on medium heat. Add 3 tbsp of ghee. Once hot, add cumin seeds, hing, and curry leaves. Let them splutter.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the crushed ginger-garlic-green chilli paste. Sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
- Add Water and Boil: Pour in 3 glasses of water. Add salt to taste. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
- Add Grains: Add the washed Moong Dal to the boiling water. Then, add the prepared (crushed) Bajra. Stir well to ensure there are no lumps. Let it boil openly for 2-3 minutes.
- Pressure Cook: Lower the flame to sim/low. Close the pressure cooker lid. Cook for about 8 whistles on a low flame to ensure the bajra cooks through completely.
- Serve: Once the pressure releases naturally, open the lid. The consistency should be porridge-like (not too dry, not too watery). Serve hot!