Kitchari is an ancient Ayurvedic staple that is one of the best detox meals you could put into your body. A kitchari cleanse promotes weight-loss, gut-health, improved immunity and overall vitality as it enables you to detoxify and heal your gut. A very simple yet delicious one-pot dish that is composed of basmati rice and red lentils or mung dahl. It has many variations and you can develop your own style of kitchari that suits you.
The balanced use of spices, grains and legumes in a kitchari cleanse has a positively nourishing effect on the body and is very easy to digest as it is high in fiber and helps to detoxify the digestive system. Basmati rice and lentils together create a complete protein which adds to its digestive and healing abilities. It nourishes all the tissues of the body and is excellent for detoxification and restoration of the cells.
Ingredients: 1/2 cup basmati rice 1 cup mung dal or red lentils 6 cups (approx.) water 1/2 to 1 inch ginger root, chopped or grated 2 tsp. ghee or coconut oil 1/2 tsp. whole cumin seeds 1/2 tsp. mustard seeds 1/2 tsp. coriander powder 1/2 tsp. cumin powder 1/2 tsp. turmeric powder 1 pinch asafoetida (hing) avoid if pregnant A bit of mineral salt (1/4 tsp. or so) Handful of fresh coriander leaves
Method: Wash the rice, then the lentils and remove any stones or shells Heat the ghee or oil in a cast-iron pot Once hot, add the seeds and allow to pop (this releases their essential oils) Add the ginger root and fry off until golden Add in the rice & lentils and fry them for 1-2 minutes Add the water and powdered spices, bring to a simmer, then cover and allow the grains to absorb all of the water (about 20 minutes) Serve with coriander & a squeeze of lemon
It’s that easy, and so delicious. Your body will love you for it.