Millet & Vegetable Khichdi with Ghee Tadka | Wholesome Comfort Food Recipe

Discover the ultimate healthy Indian comfort food — Millet & Vegetable Khichdi with Ghee Tadka. A gluten-free, protein-rich meal made with foxtail millet, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices.

Millet & Vegetable Khichdi with Ghee Tadka is the perfect blend of health, tradition, and taste. This wholesome dish replaces rice with nutrient-rich millets, combined with lentils and seasonal vegetables to create a comforting, one-pot meal that’s both light and satisfying.

A drizzle of golden ghee tadka (tempered clarified butter with spices) elevates this humble khichdi into a fragrant, soul-nourishing delight. Whether you’re on a clean-eating journey, managing gluten sensitivity, or simply craving traditional Indian comfort food, this millet khichdi is a nourishing option loved across generations.

🌾 Ingredients for Millet & Vegetable Khichdi

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup foxtail millet (thinai / kangni)

• ½ cup moong dal (split yellow lentil)

• 1 small carrot, diced

• ½ cup green peas

• 1 small potato, cubed

• ½ cup chopped beans

• 1 tomato, chopped

• 1 tsp ginger paste

• 2 green chilies, slit

• Salt to taste

For Tempering (Tadka)

• 1½ tbsp ghee (clarified butter)

• 1 tsp cumin seeds (jeera)

• ½ tsp mustard seeds

• 1 pinch asafoetida (hing)

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• 1 dry red chili

• 8–10 curry leaves

Optional Garnish

• Fresh coriander leaves

• Lemon wedge

🔪 Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Rinse and Soak

1. Rinse millet and moong dal thoroughly.

2. Soak both in water for 15–20 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. Heat 1 tbsp ghee in a pressure cooker or instant pot.

2. Add ginger paste and green chilies.

3. Add chopped vegetables (carrot, beans, peas, potato, tomato).

4. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until slightly soft.

Step 3: Add Millet and Lentils

1. Drain soaked millet and dal. Add them to the cooker.

2. Add salt and turmeric.

3. Pour 3–3½ cups of water.

4. Mix well, cover, and cook for 2 whistles on medium flame (or 10 minutes on “Pressure Cook” mode in Instant Pot).

Step 4: Prepare Ghee Tadka

1. In a small pan, heat ghee.

2. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds; let them crackle.

3. Add dry red chili, curry leaves, asafoetida, and turmeric.

4. Pour this sizzling tadka over the cooked khichdi. Mix gently.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Garnish with fresh coriander and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve with curd, papad, or pickle for a complete meal.

⚡ Quick Facts

🥦 Health Benefits of Millet Khichdi

• Rich in fiber: Millets aid digestion and prevent bloating.

• High in protein: Moong dal and millet provide essential amino acids.

• Low glycemic index: Ideal for diabetics and weight-watchers.

• Heart-friendly: Ghee and turmeric improve immunity and gut health.

🍛 Serving Suggestions

• Serve Millet Khichdi hot with homemade ghee and curd or buttermilk.

• Add a side of roasted papad or mango pickle for authentic Indian comfort.

• For a South Indian twist, serve with coconut chutney or rasam.

🧊 Storage Tips

• Store leftover khichdi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Add a splash of water and reheat in a pan before serving.

• Avoid reheating multiple times to retain nutrients.

💡 Expert Tips

1. Use foxtail or barnyard millet for best texture and flavor.

2. Add ½ tsp of garam masala for a mildly spiced version.

3. Adjust water for softer or grainier consistency.

4. For vegan option, replace ghee with cold-pressed coconut oil.

5. Stir khichdi immediately after pressure release to prevent sticking.

🧘 Cultural Insight

Khichdi has deep roots in Indian culture — often called the “food of healing”. Traditionally made during fasting or recovery, it symbolizes simplicity and nourishment. The millet version revives ancient grains that were once staple in Indian kitchens, blending Ayurveda and modern nutrition seamlessly.

❓ FAQs

1. Which millet is best for khichdi?

Foxtail millet and barnyard millet are best due to their soft, fluffy texture when cooked.

2. Can I make this khichdi in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use “Sauté” for vegetables and “Pressure Cook” for 10 minutes. Quick release after cooking.

3. Is millet khichdi suitable for diabetics?

Absolutely. Millets have a low glycemic index and help regulate blood sugar.

4. Can I skip ghee for a vegan version?

Yes, replace ghee with coconut oil or olive oil.

5. How can I make it more flavorful?

Add freshly ground pepper, kasuri methi, or a dash of garam masala in the tadka.

🧑‍🍳 Author Pack

Author: Bhimascook Editorial Team
Experts in Indian vegetarian cooking, dedicated to promoting healthy and traditional recipes rooted in India’s diverse culinary heritage. EEAT verified for trustworthy recipe content and SEO compliance.

🏁 Conclusion

The Millet & Vegetable Khichdi with Ghee Tadka is a shining example of how traditional Indian wisdom meets modern nutrition. It’s wholesome, gluten-free, and packed with earthy flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend detox meals — every spoonful delivers warmth and balance.

👉 Try this recipe today and share your healthy creations with #Bhimascook!

Useful Links

• Healthy Millet Recipes Collection

• Ayurvedic Clean Eating Guide

• Traditional Indian Comfort Foods

• Foxtail Millet Upma Recipe

• Homemade Ghee Recipe

• Moong Dal Tadka Recipe