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

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Economic Times
2 minutes ago
- Economic Times
How AI Helped an Indian Health Expert Lose 10 Kg Without Giving Up Ice Cream
Synopsis When we think of diet plans, the first thing that comes to mind is sacrifice: no desserts, no late-night snacks, no comfort food. But what if artificial intelligence could flip that idea on its head? That's exactly what happened when a health expert, Simran Valecha, turned to ChatGPT for help in creating a hyper-personalized Indian diet plan. The result: a 10 kg weight loss in just a few months while still enjoying a scoop of ice cream every week. ET Online For decades, diet culture in India has been dominated by extremes of fad diets, juice cleanses, and the age-old guilt of indulging in sweets. But one Indian health expert, Simran Valecha, decided to test a new approach: combining traditional nutrition with the precision of artificial intelligence. Instead of running to a dietitian, she opened ChatGPT and gave it detailed prompts to help her design her personalized diet that, she wrote her height, weight, and how to lose weight in a sustainable manner. She also mentioned that prepare it according to an Indian diet that will also include main meals and 2-4 snacks throughout the day. She also included that she worked a 9-5 job and spent hours commuting to work. She also included that she works out once a day when she has the leisure time. She also included her preference based on what she wanted to eat for breakfast, lunch, and her surprise, the AI didn't recommend anything drastic. No keto. No intermittent fasting. No starvation. Instead, ChatGPT crafted a personalized plan rooted in Indian staples—dal, roti, sabzi, curd, and seasonal fruits. The twist? It accounted for portion control, calorie balance, and even the occasional three months, she shed 10 kg—without the constant battle of cravings or the fear of 'falling off the wagon.' AI proved what nutritionists have been saying for years, but few practice: sustainability beats has encouraged many of her followers to get a personalized diet for themselves, as AI helps in not only providing a diet but also guidance throughout. With mid-midnight craving to cheat diet in between, that will help her to be consistent. It provided her with a clear direction and not a strict diet, which is impossible to stay consistent with. She supported the integration of AI with human support to create a sustainable path to weight beyond the success story lies a bigger question: is this the future of dieting in India? With AI tools like ChatGPT capable of analysing food patterns, cultural preferences, and even emotional triggers, diet plans no longer must feel foreign or restrictive. Instead of imported fad diets, Indians can now have technology design nutrition strategies tailored to local cuisine and health expert notes another benefit: accountability. By having ChatGPT track her progress and tweak the plan weekly, she felt guided without judgment. It wasn't about punishment, it was about progress. 'It was like having a non-judgmental coach who understood my cravings,' she importantly, this experiment challenges the belief that health demands sacrifice. Instead, it shows that with the right tools, we can balance losing weight while still enjoying life's small perhaps that's the most exciting part. AI isn't just changing how we work or communicate, it's reshaping how we eat, live, and stay healthy. If it can make ice cream part of a weight-loss plan, what else is possible? Disclaimer Statement: This content is authored by a 3rd party. The views expressed here are that of the respective authors/ entities and do not represent the views of Economic Times (ET). ET does not guarantee, vouch for or endorse any of its contents nor is responsible for them in any manner whatsoever. Please take all steps necessary to ascertain that any information and content provided is correct, updated, and verified. ET hereby disclaims any and all warranties, express or implied, relating to the report and any content therein.


Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
How to make homemade protein powders for kids with kitchen ingredients
1 2 Do have kids who always bring back their lunch boxes or simply avoid eating foods that are healthy, and always end up eating sugary, oily and unhealthy junk foods, then you must read on and follow us through these healthy yet interesting drinks, which can be made at home with some simple kitchen ingredients. So, follow us through these simple protein powders that can be made at home and can replace all store bought supplements, gummies or medications. Here's all you need to know about these homemade protein powders and how you can make them at home. Why homemade protein powders for kids? In an age where health and fitness trends often spotlight costly imported supplements and protein powders, our very own Indian kitchens quietly hold treasures that are just as rich—if not more—in nutrition and affordability. Traditional Indian ingredients like sattu, ragi, millets, almond powder, peanut powder, and dry peas powder offer exceptional plant-based protein content, dietary fiber, and essential micronutrients. These humble ingredients have nourished generations and are now making a comeback in the wellness world for all the right reasons. Here's a look at how these simple yet powerful foods can replace expensive protein powders naturally. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Many Filipinos don't know about this! Read More Undo Peas Powder Protein Power: ~22–25g protein per 100g Peas powder is made from dried green or yellow peas and is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. It's rich in lysine and iron, making it a perfect fit for vegetarians and vegans. How to Use: Add a tablespoon to smoothies, knead into dough, or mix with porridge and soups. Its neutral flavor makes it easy to pair with other foods. Ragi Flour (Finger Millet Flour) Protein Power: ~7g protein per 100g Benefits: While not very high in protein alone, ragi offers methionine (an essential amino acid lacking in many cereals), calcium, and fiber. Combined with legumes or nuts, it creates a complete protein. How to Use: Use it to make dosas, porridge, protein-rich ladoos, or add to chapati dough. Sprouted ragi flour boosts the nutrient profile even further. Sattu (Roasted Bengal Gram Flour) Protein Power: ~20g protein per 100g Benefits: A cooling, energizing flour made from roasted Bengal gram (chana), sattu is one of the most affordable protein sources. It also aids digestion and is low in glycemic index. How to Use: Mix with water, lemon, black salt, and jeera to make a summer drink. It can also be added to paratha fillings, smoothies, or energy balls. Almond Powder Protein Power: ~21g protein per 100g Benefits: Almond powder brings in protein, healthy fats, vitamin E, and magnesium. It supports brain health, skin repair, and provides lasting satiety. How to Use: Add to smoothies, laddoos, porridge, or mix with milk for a protein-rich bedtime drink. It's also great in homemade energy bars. Most of the time you might hate drinking milk plain. If you mix almond powder or crushed almonds in your plain milk and use some drops of honey to sweeten it then you will never miss a day drinking milk. Milk helps to build up bones as strong as it can, because it contains calcium. When paired with almonds the benefits power up five times better. Peanut Powder Protein Power: ~25g protein per 100g Benefits: Rich in protein, healthy fats, and B-vitamins, peanut powder provides long-lasting energy. It is also a good source of arginine, which supports heart health and muscle repair. How to Use: Add to chutneys, thicken gravies, use in laddoos, or blend into shakes and smoothies. Roasted peanut powder brings a delicious nutty flavor. Millet Powder Protein Power: ~9–11g protein per 100g (varies by millet type) Benefits: Millets are gluten-free, rich in antioxidants, and provide balanced nutrition. They offer moderate protein and are high in iron, magnesium, and fiber. How to Use: Mix powdered millets into dosa or idli batter, bake into rotis, or add to porridge. When combined with legumes or seeds, they become a protein-dense meal.


Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
'He needs your love and support,' says brother, hopeful of full recovery
File Pic: Vinod Kambli (TOI Photo) Former India cricketer Vinod Kambli continues to battle health challenges, with his younger brother Virendra Kambli offering an emotional update on his condition. Kambli, who represented India in 17 Tests and 104 ODIs, was admitted to Akruti Hospital in Thane in December 2024 due to a urinary infection and cramps. He is now back home in Bandra, but recovery remains slow. Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW! 'He is at home right now. He is getting stable, but his treatment is on. He is having difficulty speaking. It will take him time to recover. But he is a champion, and he will come back. He will start walking and running, hopefully. I have a lot of faith in him. I hope you can see him back on the ground,' Virendra said on The Vickey Lalwani Show. Poll Do you believe Vinod Kambli will make a full recovery? Yes, absolutely No, I have doubts I'm not sure Virendra also appealed to fans to pray for his elder brother's recovery. 'He underwent rehab for 10 days. He got an entire body check-up done, including brain scans and a urine test. The results were fine; there weren't too many issues, but since he couldn't walk, he was advised to undergo physiotherapy. He still slurs in his speech, but he is getting better. I just want to tell people to pray for him, so that he gets better. He needs your love and support,' he added. Amid health concerns, the 53-year-old is also grappling with financial troubles. His wife Andrea Hewitt recently revealed that she had considered separating but chose to stay by his side during this difficult phase. Kambli, once regarded as one of Indian cricket's brightest batting talents, now faces a long road to recovery — with his family's hope and support serving as his strongest pillars. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!