Basic Kitchari

Wholesome, easy to digest, and deeply nourishing

Kitchari: An Ayurvedic dish for detox

A warm, nourishing stew made with mung beans, rice, and spices, kitchari is ideal for balancing all three doshas and supporting digestion. This recipe is excellent for a gentle cleanse or as a grounding everyday meal.

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole mung beans (soaked 24 hours, rinsed)
• 1 cup basmati rice (soaked and rinsed)
• 6 cups water
• 2 tbsp ghee (or coconut oil for vegans)
• ¾ tsp sea salt
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• 2 tsp cumin powder or 1 tbsp whole seeds
• 2 tsp coriander powder or 1 tbsp whole seeds
• 1 tsp fennel powder or 1 tbsp whole seeds
• 2 tsp turmeric powder

Instructions:

1. Bring 8 cups of water to a boil. Add the soaked mung beans and rice. Return to a boil, then reduce to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Stir every few minutes. Add more water if needed.
3. In a separate pan, gently heat the ghee and spices for 2 – 3 minutes.
4. Add the spiced ghee mixture to the pot. Cook another 5 – 10 minutes, or until the texture is soft and creamy.
5. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 10 minutes before serving.

Optional additions:

• 1 tbsp plain yogurt (or coconut yogurt)
• Fresh chopped cilantro
• Cayenne or chopped chili peppers for heat

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