Buckwheat Khichdi Recipe, also known as Kuttu ki Khichdi, is yet another easy and quick recipe suitable for Navratri fasting. This nutritious and filling dish is made with buckwheat groats, potatoes, peanuts, and spices, making it a healthy option for both fasting days and regular meals.
Typically, buckwheat flour is used to make dishes like Kuttu ki Roti or Kuttu ki Poori during Navratri. However, this time I was able to find buckwheat groats in the organic section of a supermarket.
My first encounter with buckwheat groats was in Goa, where I was surprised to find them available even in local shops. Perhaps due to the frequent visits of Russian and European tourists, there was a demand for these groats.
I instantly liked the nutty flavor and taste of steamed buckwheat, so I started using it instead of rice on occasion, and my family enjoyed it as well.
After moving to a new location where buckwheat was not readily available in local shops, I was delighted to find these groats in a supermarket here.
Buckwheat, also known as ‘kuttu’ in Hindi, ‘kutto’ in Gujarati, and ‘papparai’ in Tamil, is a superfood grown locally in India. It is not a cereal grain but a fruit seed, making it gluten-free and an excellent substitute for those with gluten allergies. Buckwheat is rich in fiber and high in protein.
The triangular-shaped buckwheat groats have a light brownish-green color and are husk-free. They become gelatinous when soaked in water. If you prefer a mushy texture, you can cook buckwheat in water like rice. For a separate, rice-like texture, roast or sauté the buckwheat before cooking.
This khichdi recipe is inspired by Tarla Dalal’s version, similar to Sabudana Khichdi, with my own modifications to the ingredients and preparation method. I used 2 cups of water for 1 cup of buckwheat, resulting in soft and well-cooked groats.
Buckwheat has a warming effect, making it ideal for colder seasons. You can balance this warmth by serving it with cool yogurt raita. I often cook buckwheat like rice or make this khichdi, and during Navratri, I have already prepared it three times.
I served the buckwheat khichdi with a bowl of yogurt, but it also pairs well with Vrat ki Kadhi.
How to Prepare Buckwheat Khichdi Recipe
Preparation:
- Gather and organize all the ingredients required for making buckwheat khichdi.
- Heat a frying pan or tawa, and roast 2 tablespoons of raw peanuts until they turn crunchy and golden in color.
- Allow the roasted peanuts to cool down. Then, crush them into a coarse powder using a mortar and pestle or a coffee grinder.
- Set aside the powdered peanuts.
- Take 1 cup of buckwheat groats and rinse them thoroughly in fresh water, ensuring to wash them a few times.
- Drain the water from the rinsed buckwheat groats and set them aside for further use.
Buckwheat Khichdi Recipe Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons raw peanuts
- 1 tablespoon ghee or 1 tablespoon peanut oil
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 green chili, chopped, or 1 teaspoon chopped
- ½ inch ginger, finely chopped
- 2 medium-sized potatoes, chopped into small cubes
- 1 cup buckwheat groats (kuttu)
- 2 cups water, or as needed
- 1 teaspoon raw sugar or regular sugar, to taste
- Edible and food-grade rock salt, to taste (sendha namak or upwas ka namak)
- 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves
- Lemon juice, as required (optional)
How to Make Vrat ki Khichdi:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee or peanut oil in a pan or pot.
- Add ½ teaspoon of cumin seeds and fry until they crackle on low heat.
- Next, add 1 chopped green chili (or 1 teaspoon chopped) and ½ inch finely chopped ginger. Saute for a few seconds.
- Add 2 medium-sized potatoes chopped into small cubes. Stirring often, saute the potatoes on medium heat until they become crisp around the edges.
- Saute on medium heat, stirring often for 2 to 3 minutes or until the potatoes become crisp from the edges.
- Add the ground peanuts and saute for 30 seconds.
- Then add the rinsed buckwheat groats and stir to combine. Saute for 1 to 2 minutes on low to medium-low heat.
- Add 2 cups of water, 1 teaspoon raw sugar, and edible rock salt or sendha namak as required. Stir well to mix.
- Cover the pan with its lid and simmer the buckwheat khichdi on low to medium-low heat.
- Cook until all the water is absorbed and the buckwheat has softened and cooked well. If needed, add water during cooking to ensure the buckwheat is fully cooked.
- Once cooked, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of chopped coriander leaves (cilantro) and mix gently.
- Optionally, drizzle some lemon juice for a light tang.
- Serve hot or warm with a bowl of curd (yogurt) or vrat ki kadhi or any fasting curry dish.
Conclusion:
Buckwheat Khichdi Recipe, with its nutty flavor and wholesome ingredients, is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed during Navratri fasting or as a regular meal. It’s gluten-free, nutritious, and easy to prepare, making it a favorite among many. Whether you’re observing fasting rituals or simply looking for a healthy meal option, buckwheat khichdi is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you energized throughout the day.
FAQs about Buckwheat Khichdi Recipe:
Is buckwheat khichdi suitable for Navratri fasting?
Yes, buckwheat khichdi, also known as Kuttu ki Khichdi, is an excellent option for Navratri fasting as it is made with ingredients permissible during fasting days.
Can I make buckwheat khichdi on regular days as well?
Absolutely! Buckwheat khichdi is not only suitable for fasting days but also makes for a nutritious and delicious meal on regular days.
Is buckwheat khichdi gluten-free?
Yes, buckwheat is naturally gluten-free, making buckwheat khichdi a safe option for individuals with gluten allergies or sensitivities.
What can I serve with buckwheat khichdi?
Buckwheat khichdi pairs well with yogurt (curd), vrat ki kadhi, or any fasting curry dish. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a wholesome meal.
Can I customize the spices in buckwheat khichdi according to my preference?
Certainly! Feel free to adjust the spices in buckwheat khichdi according to your taste preferences. You can increase or decrease the amount of green chili, ginger, or other spices to suit your liking.
