20 Plain Congee Recipe Indian Deliciousness Awaits You!
Published on: Mar 30, 2024
In recent years, congee, a traditional Asian rice porridge, has gained popularity in Western countries as a nutritious and comforting meal. This simple yet versatile dish can be found in many variations across different Asian cultures, including India. Indian plain congee, also known as khichdi, is a delicious and easy-to-prepare meal that is perfect for all occasions. In this article, we will explore the history of congee in India and provide you with a step-by-step recipe for making this flavorful and hearty dish at home.
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How to Make Congee (Plain Congee, 白粥)
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Water, Chinese Mustard, Eggs, Tofu
Congee, also known as rice porridge, is a staple comfort food in many Asian countries. In India, it is known as "khichdi" and is made with rice and lentils. This simple and nourishing dish is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings like fried shallots, chili oil, or pickled vegetables.
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Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Extra Virgin Olive
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Indian Chickpea Coconut Curry
Main Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Yellow Onion, Garlic, Ginger, Curry
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Plain Paratha (An Indian Flat Bread)
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Whole Wheat Flour, Chapati Flour
No Indian meal is complete without some type of flatbread. Parathas are a popular option and are often stuffed with a variety of fillings like spiced potatoes or cauliflower. But this recipe for plain parathas is perfect for dipping into curries or chutneys and is easy to make at home.
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Plain Sweet Lassi | Sweet Lassi | Indian Lassi
Main Ingredients: Yogurt, Milk, Ice Cubes, Sugar
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No list of Indian recipes would be complete without a classic chicken curry. This dish is a staple in Indian households and is made with tender chicken, onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of aromatic spices. Serve with rice or naan for a hearty and satisfying meal.
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Indian Dal Nirvana (Dal Makhani)
Main Ingredients: Dry Lentils, Crushed Tomato, Fresh Ginger, Minced
This rich and creamy lentil dal is a staple in North Indian cuisine. It is made with a combination of lentils, tomatoes, and spices and is cooked until the lentils are soft and tender. This dish is often served with rice and is a great option for vegetarians.
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Indian Curry Chicken
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Boneless Skinless Chicken, Onion
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Indian Coconut Lentil Curry
Main Ingredients: Coconut Oil, Yellow Onion, Garlic, Fresh Grated Ginger
This coconut lentil curry is a delicious and nutritious vegetarian option that is packed with flavor. The creamy coconut milk and hearty lentils make this dish a filling and satisfying meal. The addition of Indian spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric give this dish a delicious and unique flavor.
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Plain Aloo Tikki
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Garam Masala, Chillies, Salt, Cumin Seeds
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North Indian Chicken Curry
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, Onions, Plain Yogurt, Cornstarch, Ginger
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Main Ingredients: Bread Flour, Salt, Melted Butter, Water, Butter
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Indian Restaurant Madras Curry
Main Ingredients: Spice Mix, Madras Curry Powder, Chili Powder, Paprika
This Madras curry is a popular dish in Indian restaurants and is known for its spicy and tangy flavor. The combination of tomatoes, onions, and a blend of Indian spices like mustard seeds, curry leaves, and chili powder give this dish a unique and delicious taste. Serve with rice and some papadums for a satisfying meal.
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Crispy Indian Okra
Main Ingredients: Baby Okra, Fat, Cumin Seeds, Onion, Serrano Pepper
If you're looking for a tasty and unique way to prepare okra, try making it crispy and spiced with Indian flavors. The okra is coated in a mixture of spices and gram flour before being fried until crispy. Serve as a side dish or as a snack with some mint yogurt for dipping.
This lamb curry is a rich and flavorful dish that is perfect for a special occasion. The lamb is marinated in a blend of spices before being cooked in a fragrant and spicy sauce made with onions, tomatoes, and yogurt. Serve with rice and some mango chutney for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Indian Dal Soup
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Onion, Garlic, Fresh Ginger, Cayenne
Dal soup is a staple in Indian cuisine and is a comforting and nourishing dish that is perfect for a cold day. This recipe is made with a combination of lentils, onions, garlic, ginger, and spices and is cooked until the lentils are soft and the soup is thick and hearty. Serve with some garlic naan for a delicious and satisfying meal.
The History of Plain Congee in India
Congee has been a staple food in India for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient times. In India, congee is known as khichdi, which translates to "mixture" in Hindi. This name perfectly reflects the nature of this dish as it is made by combining rice, lentils, and various spices.
Khichdi was originally considered a peasant food, as it was an inexpensive and filling meal that could be made with basic ingredients. Over time, it became popular among all social classes and was often served during religious festivals and celebrations. In fact, it is believed that khichdi was the favorite dish of Moghul emperor Akbar and was also served as a healing food for the sick.
The Health Benefits of Plain Congee
Besides being a delicious and comforting meal, plain congee also offers numerous health benefits. The combination of rice and lentils provides a good amount of protein, making it a suitable meal for vegetarians and vegans. Lentils are also a good source of fiber, which helps with digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
Moreover, the addition of Indian spices like cumin, turmeric, and coriander not only enhances the flavor of the dish but also provides medicinal properties. These spices are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making khichdi a nourishing and immune-boosting meal.
How to Make Indian Plain Congee
Now that we've learned about the history and health benefits of plain congee in India, let's dive into the recipe. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1/2 cup split yellow lentils (moong dal)
- 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
1. Rinse the rice and lentils in water until the water runs clear.
2. In a pot, heat ghee or oil over medium heat and add cumin and mustard seeds. Once they start to splutter, add turmeric, coriander, and red chili powder.
3. Add the rice and lentils to the pot and mix well with the spices.
4. Add 4 cups of water and salt to the pot and bring it to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the congee has a thick and creamy texture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves.
In Conclusion
Indian plain congee, or khichdi, is a simple and nourishing meal that has stood the test of time. With its rich history and numerous health benefits, it's no wonder that this dish has become a beloved staple in many Indian households. So next time you're in need of a comforting and nutritious meal, give this easy-to-make recipe a try.
