When was the last time you had khichdi? Was it during any Puja or festive occasions when it got served in the form of ‘bhog’? Or were you sick and you got served with a bowl full of goodness for complete nourishment?
An ancient Ayurvedic recipe, the khichdi is a wholesome and a comforting meal, prepared with the combination of lentils and rice. Although a variety of the dish exists, depending upon the spices provided, the basic ingredients remain the same. This nourishing platter is very light and is easy to digest, and it helps the body to detoxify. Although people are sometimes reluctant to have it, due to its plainness, but it is of vital essence.
The nutritious recipe has an appropriate balance of proteins and carbohydrates. One of the basic ingredients used in the preparation is the moon beans, which are a great source of dietary fiber, potassium, calcium and magnesium and vitamin C. The 10 essential amino acids present in the beans make the dish a complete protein source. In addition to this, the vegetables added to the dish only add up the nutritional value. The rice is a rich source of carbohydrates; and the khichdi itself is a gluten-free delicacy. The people sensitive to gluten and prone to celiac disease can consume this item of food.
Moreover, it is a tridoshic platter, which means it has the capability of stabilizing the three doshas- Pitta, Vata, Kapha and helps in detoxifying the body. The rice present in the khichdi is easily digested along with the essential vegetables and lentils. The rice also helps in bringing down the body temperature during the scorching summer. It is known to have healing powers and calms the intestinal walls and also helps in the regulation of stress. The chemical serotonin, believed to be able to prevent depression, is produced 95 percent in the gut. During chronic stress, our intestinal walls get irritated affecting the natural process of digestion. Thus, a bowl full of this rice-rich delicacy becomes necessary to get rid of the stress issues.
Why do the monks and the ascetics prefer this simple yet valuable form of sustenance? It is thought to have spiritual essence as it helps in regulating the stress levels and keeps our body cool. It is surprising to think that one dish can have so many values! It is considered to be one of the safest nutriments that women can consume during the stage of pregnancy. The khichdi is also known to exemplify the practice of nonviolence (Ahimsa) and is one of the reasons why the yogis prefer this simple, clean yet energy-containing dish. Sometimes it is useful to include these sattvic foods (dishes filled with qualities) in our diet, what do you think?
