By Rajan Bhattacharya
October 14, 2024
Bhuna Khichuri is a savoury, aromatic rice and lentil dish. It is cooked with roasted moong dal, basmati rice, and spices, creating a perfect comfort food for rainy days or festive occasions.
1 cup moong dal (200 g) 2 cups basmati rice (400 g) Scant 1 cup vegetable oil or ghee (200 ml) 300 g white onion, thinly sliced 3 green cardamom pods 2 pieces of cinnamon 2 Indian bay leaves (tej patta) 1 ½ tsp ground turmeric 4 ¼ cups warm water 2 ½ tsp salt 2-inch piece of grated fresh ginger 6 whole green chillies
Dry roast the moong dal in a karai or heavy pan over medium heat until golden and fragrant.
Gently wash and soak the dal and rice in cold water until the water runs clear.
Fry the onions in oil or ghee until caramelised, then set aside to cool and crisp. Drain the dal and rice, and pat them dry using paper towels.
In the remaining oil, fry the cardamom, cassia, and bay leaves, then add the dal, rice, and turmeric.
Add warm water and salt, then simmer for 20–30 minutes until the water is absorbed.
Mix in the ginger and green chillies, cover, and let the khichuri rest before serving with caramelised onions.