Best Vegan Kitchari Recipe for a Healthy, Flavorful Meal

If you’re looking for a wholesome, comforting, and utterly nourishing meal, look no further than the best vegan kitchari recipe. Kitchari is a traditional Indian dish made from a simple combination of lentils and rice, simmered gently with aromatic spices.

It’s considered a healing food in Ayurveda, perfect for detoxing, boosting digestion, and providing balanced nutrition. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable to your taste preferences.

This vibrant dish combines the earthiness of lentils with the soft texture of basmati rice, accented by warming spices like cumin, turmeric, and ginger. The result is a creamy, fragrant stew that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Plus, it’s gluten-free, oil-free (if you want), and packed with protein and fiber, making it an ideal meal for any time of day. Ready to dive into this soul-satisfying recipe?

Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan kitchari recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. It’s:

• Nutritious and balanced: Combines protein-rich lentils and complex carbs from rice for sustained energy.
• Gentle on digestion: Uses spices renowned in Ayurveda for their digestive benefits, like turmeric and cumin.
• Customizable: Easily add your favorite veggies or adjust spices to suit your palate.
• One-pot wonder: Minimal cleanup, with everything cooked together to meld flavors beautifully.
• Perfect for any meal: Enjoy it as a hearty breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 cup split yellow mung dal (yellow lentils)
• 1/2 cup basmati rice
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or neutral oil (optional)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, finely chopped or grated
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups water or vegetable broth
• Salt to taste
• 1 cup chopped vegetables (carrots, peas, spinach, or zucchini work well)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Equipment

• Medium or large heavy-bottomed pot with lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing lentils and rice)

Instructions

1. Rinse the lentils and rice: Rinse 1 cup mung dal and 1/2 cup basmati rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and any impurities. Drain well.
2. Toast the spices: Heat 1 tablespoon coconut oil in your pot over medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon cumin seeds and 1 teaspoon mustard seeds. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and the mustard seeds begin to pop.
3. Add aromatics: Stir in 1-inch grated ginger and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for 1-2 minutes until softened, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
4. Spice it up: Add 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and optionally 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom. Stir well to coat the aromatics and toast the spices for 30 seconds to release their oils.
5. Add lentils, rice, and vegetables: Pour in the rinsed mung dal and rice along with 1 cup chopped vegetables. Stir to combine everything evenly.
6. Pour in liquid and season: Add 4 cups water or vegetable broth and salt to taste. Give it a good stir and bring to a boil.
7. Simmer gently: Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The lentils and rice should be very soft and creamy.
8. Adjust consistency: If the kitchari is too thick, add a little hot water to loosen it. If too watery, cook uncovered for a few more minutes.
9. Garnish and serve: Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve with lemon wedges for a bright, tangy finish.

Tips & Variations

For a creamier texture, soak the lentils and rice for 30 minutes before cooking.

Feel free to experiment with the vegetables you include. Sweet potatoes, kale, or green beans all work beautifully.

To add more protein, toss in some cooked chickpeas or tofu cubes. For a richer flavor, try cooking the kitchari in coconut milk instead of water or broth.

Want to spice it up? Add a pinch of cayenne or a diced green chili.

For a milder version, reduce the garlic and ginger. If you love a crispy texture, top your serving with roasted nuts or seeds.

If you enjoy this recipe, you might want to check out other hearty and comforting dishes like our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes (vegan style!) or the fluffy Magic Dough Recipe. For a sweet finish, the Marzipan Challah Recipe is a delightful treat.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Kitchari is delicious on its own as a light, healing meal. However, you can elevate it with these simple accompaniments:

• Fresh chutneys or pickles: Mango or lime chutney adds a sweet and tangy contrast.
• Roasted or steamed vegetables: Serve alongside roasted cauliflower or sautéed greens for extra texture.
• Flatbreads: Warm some vegan naan or chapati for dipping and scooping.
• Yogurt or coconut yogurt: A dollop on top offers creaminess and a cooling effect.
• Sprinkle with toasted seeds: Pumpkin or sesame seeds add a nice crunch.

Conclusion

This best vegan kitchari recipe brings together simplicity, nourishment, and comforting flavors in one satisfying pot. It’s a true testament to how humble ingredients can create something magical when combined with care and aromatic spices.

Whether you’re recovering from a busy week, seeking a detox meal, or simply craving a warm bowl of goodness, this kitchari is your go-to.

By following this recipe, you’ll have a versatile base that can be tailored to your own taste and dietary needs. Plus, it’s a wonderful introduction to Ayurvedic cooking principles, blending wellness with deliciousness.

Don’t forget to explore other recipes on our site like the Lump Of Coal Recipe for a hearty meal or the Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe for something fresh and light. Happy cooking and enjoy your nourishing bowl of kitchari!

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