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On January 14th, the festival of Makar Sankranti is celebrated across the country, marking the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. This auspicious day is often associated with new beginnings and agricultural harvests. One of the traditional dishes prepared during this festival is Urad Dal Khichdi, a nutritious and flavorful dish. In this article, we will explore the significance of Makar Sankranti and provide a detailed recipe for making Urad Dal Khichdi.
Significance of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti is not only a festival that signifies the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar) but also a celebration of harvest. It is celebrated with various customs and traditions across different regions of India. The festival is known by different names in various states, such as Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Lohri in Punjab, and Bihu in Assam. Regardless of the regional variations, the central theme of gratitude for the harvest remains the same.
Urad Dal Khichdi: A Festive Delight
Ingredients Required
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Urad Dal (Black Gram) | 1 cup |
| Rice | 1 cup |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 inch piece |
| Green Chilies (slit) | 2-3 |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Garam Masala | 1 tsp |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 tsp |
| Salt | to taste |
| Cooking Oil or Ghee | 2 tbsp |
| Water | 4-5 cups |
Preparation Steps
- Rinse the urad dal and rice separately under running water until the water runs clear. Soak them in water for about 30 minutes.
- In a large pot, heat oil or ghee over medium flame. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add chopped onions, green chilies, and grated ginger. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
- Add the soaked urad dal and rice to the pot, along with turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.
- Pour in the water (4-5 cups) and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice and urad dal are tender.
- Fluff the khichdi with a fork and serve hot with achar (pickle) or yogurt, garnished with fresh coriander leaves if desired.
Health Benefits of Urad Dal Khichdi
Urad dal khichdi is not just a festive dish but also offers numerous health benefits:
- Rich in Protein: Urad dal is a great source of plant-based protein, making it ideal for vegetarians.
- High in Fiber: The combination of rice and lentils makes this dish rich in dietary fiber, promoting good digestion.
- Aids Weight Management: Being a low-calorie dish, khichdi can help keep you full for longer, supporting weight loss efforts.
- Nutrient-Dense: This dish provides essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that boost overall health.
