logo
6 Gut-Friendly Khichdi Recipes That Are Perfect When You Need Comfort Food

6 Gut-Friendly Khichdi Recipes That Are Perfect When You Need Comfort Food

NDTV6 hours ago

In a rush? Can't cook?
When your stomach needs a warm hug, khichdi is the first thing that comes to mind. It is soft, simple, and does not demand too much of your time or your ingredients. Whether you are feeling under the weather, recovering from a late-night junk food binge, or simply want something fuss-free, khichdi (with a generous dollop of ghee) fits every mood. Even better, it is genuinely good for your gut. High in fibre, low in spice, and easy to digest, this humble one-pot Indian meal works like a gentle reset for your system. Of course, you could always order a bowl of khichdi from your favourite food delivery app when cooking feels like a stretch (no judgement here). But if you feel up to it, these comforting and wholesome recipes might be just what your stomach needs.
Here Are 6 Gut-Friendly Khichdi Recipes That Are Perfect When You Need Comfort Food
1. Classic Moong Dal Khichdi: Easy On The Gut, Big On Comfort
The OG comfort meal, moong dal khichdi is made using split yellow moong dal and rice. It is soft, soupy, and incredibly light on the stomach. It is low in fat, high in protein, and packed with nourishing ingredients that support digestion. A simple tempering of jeera, hing, and ghee adds just the right amount of flavour. Want to boost the fibre content? Toss in a handful of chopped vegetables and it is sorted. You can follow a basic recipe here, or if you are feeling under the weather (or just too tired), ordering from your favourite food delivery app in is a valid option.
2. Palak Moong Dal Khichdi: Comfort Food With A Nutrient Kick
This one is for the days when you want your food to feel like a hug but still be loaded with nutrients. Palak moong dal khichdi combines gut-friendly lentils with spinach, which is rich in iron and fibre. It is light, filling, and comforting, especially when topped with ghee. Serve it with curd or a bit of pickle for that complete home-style feel.
3. Masoor Dal Khichdi: Wholesome, Flavourful, and Easy To Digest
If you enjoy khichdi with more depth of flavour, masoor dal is a great choice. It is still gentle on the gut but has a slightly fuller taste compared to moong. This recipe comes together quickly and pairs beautifully with sauteed onions and a sprinkle of coriander. Masoor dal is packed with folate and iron, making this a perfect option when you want a healthy one-pot meal that does not compromise on flavour.
4. Panchmel Khichdi: Protein-Rich And Surprisingly Light
You may be a fan of panchmel dal, but have you tried panchmel khichdi? Made with five different lentils - moong, urad, chana, masoor, and toor - this khichdi is a protein powerhouse. Despite the variety of dals, it remains surprisingly easy to digest and is gentle on the stomach. Traditionally served with kadhi or a spoonful of ghee, this is one of those recipes that leaves you feeling nourished, full, and satisfied without heaviness.
5. Vegetable Dalia Khichdi: High-Fibre And Gut-Friendly
Dalia, or broken wheat, is rich in fibre and great for digestion. When combined with vegetables like carrots, peas, and beans, you get a nutrient-dense khichdi that is low in refined carbs and easy on the gut. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, especially on days when your stomach feels sluggish. And yes, if your pantry is out of dalia, you can still enjoy this meal via your go-to food delivery app. No shame in taking the shortcut.
6. Bajra Khichdi: A Hearty, Gut-Soothing Winter Favourite
Looking for something earthy, hearty, and satisfying? Bajra khichdi is your answer. Made with pearl millet and moong dal, this recipe is a winter favourite for its gut-balancing benefits. It has a lovely texture and pairs well with kadhi, ghee, or pickle. Bajra is rich in fibre and magnesium, which keeps your stomach happy and full for hours. A perfect blend of comfort and nutrition.
When In Doubt, Make Khichdi
From the classic moong dal to the hearty bajra version, these comforting khichdi recipes offer something for every mood. Whether you need something easy to digest, something that heals, or just something warm and homely, khichdi is that fuss-free, feel-good bowl of nourishment your stomach will thank you for.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Wegovy enters India: Experts discuss health impact of the popular weight loss drug
Wegovy enters India: Experts discuss health impact of the popular weight loss drug

Time of India

time33 minutes ago

  • Time of India

Wegovy enters India: Experts discuss health impact of the popular weight loss drug

New Delhi, June 24 (IANS) Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk on Tuesday launched its once-weekly injectable weight-loss drug Wegovy in India, at Rs 4,336.25 per dose. Weight loss isn't what it used to be. The old 'eat less, move more' mantra just doesn't cut it for many people anymore, especially those dealing with hormonal, genetic, or metabolic roadblocks. Now, a powerful new tool has arrived in India's fight against obesity: Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4mg), the much-discussed weight loss injection that's already made waves in the U.S. and Europe. But is it just another hype-heavy fad, or is it a genuine medical breakthrough? We spoke to some of India's top endocrinologists, gynaecologists, and diabetes specialists—and their answers may surprise you. What is Wegovy? Wegovy is the brand name for a higher-dose formulation of semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist originally designed to help manage type 2 diabetes. It mimics a hormone that regulates hunger and insulin levels. In simpler terms: it makes you feel full faster, eat less, and burn fat more efficiently—all while improving blood sugar control. And no, it's not a magical skinny shot. But it might be the closest modern science has come to offering one—especially for people with obesity who haven't seen results from diet and exercise alone. India's obesity epidemic: Why Wegovy's arrival matters India is now third globally for obesity and second for type 2 diabetes, according to experts like Dr Muffazal Lakdawala, Director, General Surgery and Minimal Access and Surgical Sciences, Sir H. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với mức chênh lệch giá thấp nhất IC Markets Đăng ký Undo N. Reliance Foundation, Hospital, Mumbai, Wegovy represents more than just another prescription drug—it's a mindset shift. 'There is no such thing as 'healthy obesity.' Even when complications are not yet visible, the long-term risks—infertility, cancer, diabetes—are very real,' he says. 'The first step is to view obesity as a disease, not a cosmetic issue.' This change in attitude could finally nudge the Indian public—and policymakers—to take weight seriously. Beyond the kilos: Wegovy's real benefits One of the most impressive things about Wegovy is that its impact goes far beyond the weighing scale. According to Dr. Ambrish Mithal, Chairman & Head of Endocrinology at Max Healthcare, it's not just about dropping a few kilos. 'Semaglutide 2.4mg enhances satiety and also reduces cardiac events by 20% in people with overweight or obesity with pre-existing heart disease,' he explains. 'That's a major breakthrough.' So while narratives may focus on rapid weight loss, doctors are more excited about what's happening inside the body—improved insulin function, reduced inflammation, and even potential neuroprotective benefits, according to Dr. A.G. Unnikrishnan, CEO of Chellaram Diabetes Institute. 'It restores blood-brain barrier integrity and improves astrocyte-vascular interaction,' he says. 'This could be a game-changer for overall metabolic health, not just weight.' A lifeline for diabetics and postpartum women Wegovy may also be a critical lifeline for people with type 2 diabetes and women struggling with postpartum weight gain or PCOS. Dr. Shashank Joshi, a prominent endocrinologist at Lilavati Hospital, explains: 'Semaglutide is valuable for diabetic patients battling obesity. What excites us most is its ability to restore metabolic homeostasis at a cellular level—it's sustainable.' Meanwhile, Dr. Rishma Pai, a top Mumbai-based gynaecologist, highlights how the drug can help break the intergenerational cycle of obesity. 'We see a rising trend of abdominal obesity in women of reproductive age. Around 12-13% of pregnant and postpartum women in India battle obesity. Wegovy, combined with lifestyle changes, can improve maternal health outcomes significantly.' Not a shortcut, but a scientific strategy The word 'weight loss drug' often gets misunderstood—thanks to the many dodgy fat burners that flooded Indian markets in the past. But doctors are clear: Wegovy is not a shortcut. It's science. Dr. V. Mohan, a leading voice in diabetes care, puts it bluntly, 'This is not just about shedding pounds. It addresses the entire obesity-diabetes-metabolic syndrome triad, which is extremely common in Indian patients. We've needed something like this for years.' Experts also see Wegovy as a much-needed alternative to bariatric surgery, especially for patients who aren't eligible or willing to go under the knife. 'It can be an adjunct for those who regain weight post-surgery or an option for those who are ineligible for it,' adds Dr. Lakdawala. So, who should be taking it? Wegovy is not for everyone. It's specifically meant for: Adults with a BMI of 30 or more (obese) Adults with a BMI of 27 or more who also have weight-related health problems like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol It's not a vanity drug. It's a prescription-only, doctor-supervised therapy that needs to be part of a broader weight loss plan that includes a balanced diet and regular movement. Risks and realities Like any drug, Wegovy isn't side-effect-free. Nausea, vomiting, constipation, and headaches are some of the commonly reported issues—especially in the early weeks. And it's not a magic wand. Once you stop taking it, the weight may come back unless long-term lifestyle changes are in place. That's why all doctors stress the importance of pairing the drug with behavioural support and nutritional guidance. "Anti-obesity medications like Wegovy must be evaluated not merely by percentage weight loss, but by their ability to change hard clinical outcomes — reducing CVD, CKD, and potentially extending life. It's time we see these therapies as tools for longevity and disease prevention, not just for the weighing scale," says Dr. Rajiv Kovil, Head of Diabetology, Zandra Healthcare, and Co-founder of Rang De Neela Initiative. India has long treated obesity as a willpower problem rather than a medical condition. Wegovy's arrival could finally change that. If used wisely—and accessibly—Wegovy could be more than just a drug. It could be India's long-overdue wake-up call to treat obesity as the serious, system-wide condition that it truly is. Wegovy is finally in India. It's not a fad, but a clinically proven weight-loss injection that tackles metabolic dysfunction, improves heart health, and might help people with diabetes, PCOS, and obesity live better, longer lives. But it's no solo act—healthy lifestyle habits still lead the show. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change

Weight-loss drug Wegovy starts at ₹17,345 in India
Weight-loss drug Wegovy starts at ₹17,345 in India

Economic Times

time2 hours ago

  • Economic Times

Weight-loss drug Wegovy starts at ₹17,345 in India

Live Events (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel Mumbai: Wegovy (semaglutide), the popular weight-loss drug from Danish drug maker Novo Nordisk , is priced between Rs 17,345 and Rs 26,015 across dosages in India. The company announced at its launch that the easy-to-administer once-a-weekly pen-filled injectable will have the advantage of convenient drug will be available in five dosing strengths (0.25, 0.5, 1, 1.7 and 2.4 mg) and will be prescribed for long-term chronic weight management and reduction in risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).Vikrant Shrotriya, MD, Novo Nordisk India, said obesity is a chronic disease and a national epidemic. "Wegovy is a transformative therapeutic solution with the convenience of a world-class, state-of-the-art pen device," he Mithal, chairman and head, endocrinology and diabetes, Max Healthcare , said although the price of Wegovy is not within the reach of the Indian masses, the potential for the drug is time, he said, the cardiovascular benefit of Wegovy 2.4 mg is an important addition to the weight loss benefits. It is clinically proven to reduce cardiac events by 20%, both in people suffering from overweight/obesity with pre-existing heart drug can be prescribed for patients with BMI over 30 and those with BMI above 27 and pre-existing surgeon Mufazzal Lakdawala told ET that weight-loss drugs are proving to be the game-changers and they have just unlocked the potential for obese patients. He said the new age weight loss drugs could potentially complement bariatric surgery for patients beyond BMI of 45-50 as a weight-loss to Wegovy, Mounjaro's 2.5 mg and 5 mg vials, which are also given on a weekly basis, are priced at Rs 14,000 to Rs 17,500 for a month's dose.

My patient's blood sugar level was going up after meals despite a balanced thali: What did he miss?
My patient's blood sugar level was going up after meals despite a balanced thali: What did he miss?

Indian Express

time2 hours ago

  • Indian Express

My patient's blood sugar level was going up after meals despite a balanced thali: What did he miss?

One of my patients was troubled by his post-meal readings. 'I now eat on time, have a healthy thali of home-cooked food — sabzi (vegetables), dal, salad, a small portion of rice or roti. But my post-meal reading came to 210 mg/dL, when it should not be more than 140 mg/dL. The reading after two hours of eating a meal came to 280 mg/dL, which should be less than 180 mg/dL. What am I doing wrong?' he asked me. Despite a balanced Indian thali every day, he was still experiencing post-meal fatigue, sugar spikes or cravings. The issue was not what he was eating but how he was eating it. So we reversed the order of what he ate first. We made him have salads and vegetables first, both of which are fibre-rich. Then we followed it up with dal, soybean or protein, which added further heft to the meal. In the end we followed up a remnant of all these with rice or roti. By then he was quite full and had very little of the carbs. His blood sugar levels gradually went down to normal by simply shuffling his food around. Why food sequence matters Our bodies process different nutrients at different rates. When carbohydrates are eaten first, especially refined ones like white rice or breads, they quickly break down into sugar, causing a sharp rise in blood glucose. This can trigger insulin surges and a subsequent drop in energy. However, when fibre and protein are eaten first, they slow the digestion and absorption of sugars that follow. The Ideal Eating Order For better blood sugar regulation, follow this simple sequence. Fibre first: Begin your meal with a portion of salad, sautéed vegetables or lightly cooked greens. The soluble fibre in these foods helps form a gel-like barrier in the stomach, delaying the absorption of sugars from subsequent foods. Protein and healthy fats next: This includes dal, curd, paneer, tofu, eggs, or lean meat. Proteins and fats further slow gastric emptying and promote satiety, which can help reduce the total quantity of food consumed. Carbohydrates last: End your meal with rice, roti, or other grains. Eating carbs at the end allows your body to digest them more slowly, leading to a lower glucose response post-meal. A Note on Dal: Protein or Carb? Dal is often celebrated for being rich in plant-based protein. However, it's important to note that dals also contain a significant amount of carbohydrates. While they are a nutrient-dense option, their carb content should be accounted for in the total calories allowed per day — especially when paired with other carbohydrate-rich foods like rice or chapati. Researchers in Japan tested participants with the same meal, which consisted of protein, vegetables and white rice. When participants began by eating a simple carbohydrate — in this case, white rice — their post-meal blood glucose and insulin levels were measurably higher than those who had eaten the white rice last. Conversely, when those same participants began by eating protein and vegetables and saved the rice for last, their post-meal insulin and glucose levels were measurably lower. Include probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt or buttermilk. Probiotics can help improve gut health and potentially reduce blood sugar spikes. (Dr Bhattacharya is endocrinologist, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi)

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store