By Aditi Saraswat
November 21, 2025
Palak khichdi is a wholesome one-pot meal made with rice, lentils, and spinach cooked together with mild spices and ghee. Light on the stomach yet filling, this green-hued comfort bowl is perfect for busy weekdays, lazy nights, or when you crave something nurturing, simple, and home-style.
½ cup rice ¼ cup moong dal 2 cups spinach, chopped 1–2 tbsp ghee 1 tsp cumin seeds Slit 1 green chilli Ginger, grated ¼ tsp turmeric powder Salt to taste 3–3½ cups water
Rinse about ½ cup of rice and ¼ cup moong dal. Soak for about 15–20 minutes, drain and keep aside.
In a pressure cooker, heat 1–2 tbsp ghee and add 1 tsp cumin seeds, slit green chilli, and 1 tsp grated ginger. Sauté until it turns aromatic.
Add 2 cups of chopped spinach and 1 chopped tomato (optional). Sauté for about 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts slightly.
Add soaked rice and dal, ¼ tsp turmeric, and salt to taste and mix well.
Pour in 3–3½ cups water, mix, and pressure cook for 3–4 whistles on medium flame until everything turns soft and mushy.
Let the pressure release naturally. Open the lid, and mash lightly if necessary. Sprinkle some garam masala, drizzle with a dollop of ghee on top, and serve hot.