Grandma’s Secret Masala Khichdi – A Hug in a Bowl

Category: Comfort Food / Indian Recipes

There’s something about a bowl of masala khichdi that feels like home – warm, comforting, and deeply satisfying. This isn’t just any khichdi. This is my dadi’s special masala khichdi, cooked slow, spiced gently, and topped with a spoonful of love (and ghee!).

I remember sitting beside her, watching the steam rise as she added her secret masala blend. I’ve tried to recreate that magic – and today, I’m sharing it with you.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup rice
• 1/4 cup yellow moong dal
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 1 tomato (chopped)
• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp red chilli powder
• Salt to taste
• Ghee (a must!)
• 2.5 cups water
• Optional: peas, carrots, or potatoes

Method:

1. Wash and soak rice and dal for 10–15 mins.
2. Heat ghee in a pressure cooker. Add mustard, cumin, and let them splutter.
3. Add onions, sauté until golden. Add tomatoes and spices. Cook till soft.
4. Add soaked rice and dal, mix well. Pour in water and a pinch of salt.
5. Pressure cook for 3–4 whistles.
6. Top with a spoon of ghee and serve with curd or pickle.

Why I Love It:

It reminds me of sick days turned cozy, rainy evenings spent with family, and how simple food can carry generations of flavor. Try it once — it might just become your family’s comfort dish too.