The Masala Kitchari from Hare Krishna is a divine and flavorsome meal made with rice, mung beans, and an array of spices. This one-pot wonder is a treat for those who savor bold flavors and richness in their food.
Crafted with utmost love and devotion, this kitchari is a cherished offering to Krishna adored by devotees.
Serving Ideas
- Enjoy the Masala Kitchari as a main course alongside plain yogurt or raita for a fulfilling experience.
- Spice it up with tangy Indian pickles or pair it with crispy papadums for a delightful crunch.
- Elevate the flavors by adding sweet or spicy chutney to complement the savory notes of the kitchari. These serving suggestions create a harmonious dining experience that fosters unity and camaraderie among devotees.
Historical Significance
The Masala Kitchari holds a special place in the hearts of devotees as it symbolizes nourishment and balance. Rooted in Indian culinary traditions, this masala-infused version emphasizes purity and devotion, making it a staple in many Hare Krishna households.
Spiritual Reflection
Beyond being just a dish, the Masala Kitchari embodies simplicity, sustenance, and devotion. Through preparing and presenting this dish to Krishna, we engage in the sacred act of bhakti, turning cooking into a spiritual odyssey. This kitchari serves as a poignant reminder that even the simplest ingredients can create something extraordinary when infused with love and devotion.
Let this divine Masala Kitchari inspire you to cook with boundless love and view each meal as an offering to Krishna, drawing us closer to Him bite by bite.
PrintMasala Kitchari
Hare Krishna Masala Kitchari is a comforting and flavorful dish, inspired by the principles of bhakti yoga. This rich kitchari combines wholesome ingredients, creating a harmonious blend that enhances any meal. In the tradition of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, cooking and offering food to Krishna is an act of love and devotion, known as bhakti. Each dish is prepared with care, mindfulness, and a pure heart, making it not just a meal but a spiritual offering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 – 6 1x
- Category: Main Course, Breakfast
- Method: Simmer
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice (washed & soaked for 1 hour)
- 1 cup yellow moong dal (washed & soaked for 1 hour)
- 1 handful green moong dal
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 stalk curry leaves
- 1 tbsp peanuts, whole
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 large potato, peeled & cubed
- 2–3 whole red dry chillies
- 1 1/2 tsp asofoetida
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp chopped coriander
- 3 tbsp ghee
- 6–7 cups water
Instructions
- Prepare the Grains: Rinse the rice and yellow moong dal thoroughly under running water and soak for 1 hour.
- Heat the Ghee: In a large pot, heat the ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and peanuts. Sauté until the seeds start to splutter.
- Add Aromatics: Add the bay leaf, curry leaves, whole red dry chilies, and asafoetida. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables and Grains: Add the chopped potatoes and sauté for a few minutes. Then add the soaked rice and yellow moong dal, along with the handful of green moong dal. Stir well to coat with the spices.
- Spice It Up: Add the turmeric powder, salt, and garam masala. Stir well to combine.
- Add Water and Simmer: Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until the rice and dal are cooked and the mixture has thickened.
- Finish with Freshness: Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the kitchari and garnish with chopped coriander.
- Serve: Offer to Krishna and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker kitchari, reduce the amount of water. For a more soupy consistency, add extra water as needed.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a handful of chopped spinach or other vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.
- Serving Tip: Serve kitchari with a side of fresh lime or lemon wedges to brighten the flavors.
- Leftovers: Kitchari can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Unsaturated Fat: 0
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 45h
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg