Kichari In A Jar For The Holidays

Vegan Richa

Video Stats

Channel: Vegan Richa
Host: Vegan Richa
Published: Jun 12, 2025
Views: 757

Recipe Overview

Prep: 10 min
Cook: 15 min
Difficulty: Beginner
Serves: 4

Overview

Kichari in a jar is a delightful and nourishing dish that brings the warmth of Indian cuisine to your table. This recipe combines rice and yellow lentils, creating a comforting meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. The beauty of kichari lies in its versatility; you can customize it with your favorite spices and vegetables, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.

The process of making kichari is straightforward. Simply combine the rice and lentils in a jar along with your chosen spices, and when you’re ready to cook, just add water and any additional ingredients you like. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights or as a thoughtful gift for friends and family.

One of the standout features of kichari is its ability to be both nourishing and easy on the stomach, making it a go-to comfort food for many. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want a warm hug in a bowl, this dish delivers. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce others to the flavors of Indian cuisine without overwhelming them with complex cooking techniques.

Overall, kichari in a jar is not just a meal; it’s an experience that invites creativity and personalization. So gather your ingredients, toast those spices, and enjoy the process of making this delightful dish.

Recipe Details

Steps & Tips

01:14

Tip: If using brown rice, pair it with brown lentils or green moong beans.

1
01:35

Add all ingredients to a saucepan or instant pot.

2
01:37

Add water and salt to the saucepan or instant pot.

3
01:39

Mix the ingredients together.

01:58

Tip: For a porridge-like consistency, cook the lentils and rice longer with more water.

4
02:21

Cook until the lentils start to break down.

02:40

Tip: For everyday meals, add all spices and some veggies for extra flavor.

5
02:50

Add rice and lentils of choice into a jar.

6
02:58

Make a small pouch of spices in a plastic or paper bag.

7
03:03

Toast cumin seeds and whole cloves on a dry skillet.

03:09

Tip: To simplify cooking, toast spices before adding them to the jar.

8
03:30

Let toasted spices cool, then add to the spice pouch.

03:46

Tip: If avoiding onion and garlic, substitute with a bit of asafoetida.

9
03:51

Seal the spice pouch and place it in the jar.

10
03:56

Add labels and ribbons to the jar.

04:15

Tip: Keep spices separate if washing rice and lentils before cooking.

04:36

Tip: Experiment with different grains and lentils for variety.

Ingredients

Serves: 4
Cumin Seeds1 tsp
Cloves2
Turmeric1 tsp
Garam Masala1 tsp
Onion Flakes1 tbsp
Garlic Granules1 tsp
Ground Ginger1 tsp
Salt1 tsp

Nutrition

Calories
300
kcal per serving
Protein
12
per serving
Carbs
50
per serving

Skill Level

Skill Level Beginner
Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Frequently asked questions

Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.

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Interesting Tidbits

  • Kichari is traditionally made with rice and lentils, making it a comforting and easily digestible dish.
  • The dish can be customized with various spices and vegetables to suit personal preferences.
  • Kichari is often served with Indian pickles or chutneys for added flavor.
  • Toasting spices before adding them enhances their flavor and aroma.