Sama Chawal Khichdi
Sama Chawal Khichdi is a wholesome and nourishing dish commonly consumed during the Navratri fasting period, when grains like rice are avoided. Also known as Samak Rice Khichdi, it is made with sama chawal, which are actually seeds of the grass species called Barnyard Millet. The Sama Chawal Khichdi is light, easy to digest, and packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for fasting days. The gentle flavors of sama chawal, combined with mild spices and vegetables, create a comforting and satisfying meal that provides energy and sustenance during fasting.
Sama Chawal Khichdi is not only nutritious but also incredibly versatile, allowing for various vegetables and seasonings to be added according to personal preferences. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that celebrates the bounty of nature and the spirit of fasting. Whether served with a side of plain yogurt or accompanied by fasting-friendly chutneys, Sama Chawal Khichdi is sure to become a favorite during the auspicious Navratri days.
Ingredients Required
- 1 cup sama chawal (समा चावल)
- 1 tablespoon ghee or oil (घी या तेल)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (जीरा)
- 1 green chili, chopped (हरी मिर्च)
- 1 inch ginger, grated (अदरक)
- 1 potato, diced (आलू)
- 1 carrot, diced (गाजर)
- 1/4 cup green peas (हरे मटर)
- Rock salt to taste (सेंधा नमक)
- Groundnut or cashew (optional)
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing (ताजा धनिया पत्ती)
Step-wise Process
- Rinse the sama chawal (समा चावल) under running water until the water runs clear. Soak them in enough water for about 30 minutes.
- Heat ghee or oil (घी या तेल) in a pressure cooker or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds (जीरा) and let them splutter.
- Add the chopped green chili (हरी मिर्च) and grated ginger (अदरक) to the pan. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced potato (आलू), carrot (गाजर), and green peas (हरे मटर) to the pan. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Drain the soaked sama chawal (समा चावल) and add them to the pan. Mix well with the vegetables.
- Add rock salt to taste (सेंधा नमक) and 2 cups of water to the pan. Stir to combine everything.
- If using a pressure cooker, close the lid and cook on medium heat for 2 whistles. If using a heavy-bottomed pan, cover and cook until the sama chawal (समा चावल) are tender and the water is absorbed, stirring occasionally.
- Once cooked, let the pressure release naturally or open the lid of the pan. Fluff the khichdi gently with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves (ताजा धनिया पत्ती) before serving.
Number of Servings
- This recipe serves 3-4 people.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep time: 30 minutes (including soaking time)
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
Important Points to Keep in Mind
- Ensure to soak the sama chawal (समा चावल) before cooking to reduce the cooking time and improve the texture.
- Adjust the quantity of water according to the desired consistency of the khichdi.
- Feel free to add or omit vegetables based on personal preferences and availability.
How to Serve Sama Chawal Khichdi
Serve Sama Chawal Khichdi hot with a side of plain yogurt or fasting-friendly chutneys like peanut or coconut chutney. It can also be enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.
Final Thoughts…
Sama Chawal Khichdi is a comforting and nutritious dish that perfectly complements the fasting rituals during Navratri. With its wholesome ingredients and mild spices, it provides sustenance and satisfaction without compromising on flavor. Enjoy this wholesome khichdi with your family and friends during the auspicious days of Navratri, and savor the goodness of nature’s bounty.
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