Millet and Greens Khichdi Recipe

Discover the goodness of Millet and Greens Khichdi — a hearty, one-pot meal made with foxtail millet, seasonal greens, and aromatic Indian spices. Ideal for lunch or dinner.

In 2025, millets have made a powerful comeback to Indian kitchens — and Millet and Greens Khichdi perfectly captures that revival. This wholesome one-pot dish combines foxtail millet (kangni) or little millet (samai) with nutrient-rich greens like spinach, methi (fenugreek), or amaranth.

Light, filling, and packed with plant-based proteins, this khichdi is an excellent alternative to traditional rice khichdi. With the earthy aroma of ghee and a blend of spices, it’s not just healthy but deeply comforting. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a detox meal during busy weeks.

🥣 Ingredients for Millet and Greens Khichdi

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup foxtail millet (thinai/kangni)
• ½ cup split moong dal (yellow lentils)
• 2 cups chopped spinach or mixed greens (amaranth, methi, or palak)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1–2 green chilies, slit
• 1 tsp ginger, grated
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1–2 tbsp ghee or oil
• 4 cups water (adjust consistency)
• Salt to taste
• Optional Tempering (Tadka)
• 1 tsp ghee
• ½ tsp mustard seeds
• 1–2 dry red chilies
• 1 pinch asafoetida (hing)
• Curry leaves (optional)

🧑‍🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare Millet and Dal

1. Rinse millet and moong dal thoroughly.

2. Soak both together in water for 15–20 minutes. Drain before cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Base

1. Heat ghee or oil in a pressure cooker or heavy-bottomed pan.

2. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

3. Add onions, chilies, and ginger; sauté until translucent.

4. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft.

Step 3: Add Spices and Greens

1. Stir in turmeric and salt.

2. Add the chopped greens and sauté for 2–3 minutes until wilted.

Step 4: Cook the Khichdi

1. Add soaked millet and dal to the pan.

2. Pour in water, mix well, and check seasoning.

3. Pressure cook for 3–4 whistles (or simmer covered for 20–25 minutes).

Step 5: Temper and Serve

1. In a small pan, heat ghee for tempering.

2. Add mustard seeds, red chilies, hing, and curry leaves.

3. Pour over cooked khichdi and mix well.

4. Serve hot with a drizzle of ghee on top.

🍛 Serving Suggestions

• Serve Millet and Greens Khichdi with:

  • Cucumber raita or curd

  • Papad and pickle

  • Beetroot salad or mint chutney

For a complete meal, pair with Homemade Masala Buttermilk for natural cooling benefits.

🥗 Health Benefits of Millet and Greens Khichdi

• High in Fiber & Protein: Keeps you full longer and aids digestion.

• Rich in Iron & Calcium: Thanks to the greens and millets.

• Diabetes-Friendly: Foxtail millet helps regulate blood sugar levels.

• Heart-Healthy: Low in cholesterol and gluten-free.

• Perfect Detox Meal: Light on the stomach, nourishing for gut health.

For another wholesome millet dish, try our Barnyard Millet Pongal Recipe.

💡 Tips for Perfect Khichdi

• Adjust water for your desired consistency — thick for meals, runny for comfort food.

• Use desi ghee for aroma and rich flavor.

• Add vegetables like carrots, beans, or peas for extra nutrition.

• You can substitute foxtail millet with barnyard, kodo, or little millet.

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

🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Cool and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Add a splash of warm water while reheating to restore texture.

🪔 Cultural Note

Millets, once known as the “poor man’s grain,” are now celebrated as “smart foods” due to their nutrition and sustainability. In traditional South Indian households, millet-based khichdi was often made during fasting days or after temple rituals as a sattvic meal. Today, chefs across India are reviving these ancient grains in modern, creative forms — from breakfast bowls to biryanis.

⚡ Quick Facts

❓ FAQs about Millet and Greens Khichdi Recipe

Q1: Can I make millet khichdi without a pressure cooker?
Yes, you can cook it in a covered pot — just add extra water and simmer until soft.

Q2: Which millet works best for khichdi?
Foxtail millet gives a light texture, while little millet makes it creamier.

Q3: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Carrots, beans, peas, or bottle gourd blend well with greens.

Q4: Is millet khichdi good for diabetic diets?
Yes, millets have a low glycemic index and help maintain blood sugar levels.

Q5: How to make this khichdi vegan?
Simply replace ghee with cold-pressed coconut oil or sesame oil.

🧑‍💼 Author Pack

Author: Bhima Rao
About: Bhima Rao is the founder of Bhimascook.com, a blog dedicated to authentic Indian vegetarian recipes rooted in regional traditions. His recipes promote millet revival and balanced eating for modern lifestyles.
Reviewed by: Nutritionist Dr. Shweta Krishnan (Ph.D. in Food Science)
Last Updated: November 2025

🔗 Useful Links

• Barnyard Millet Pongal Recipe

• Masala Buttermilk Recipe

• External Authority: Indian Institute of Millets Research – Foxtail Millet Facts