Bhoger Khichuri is a traditional Bengali vegetarian dish made with fragrant Gobindobhog rice, moong dal, vegetables, and aromatic spices. The rice and lentils are slow-cooked together with potatoes, cauliflower, peas, and a flavourful tempering of whole spices. It is often served as a bhog or prasad during pujas and religious occasions. While it takes a bit of preparation, the cooking process is quite simple, making it an ideal one-pot meal.
Sunrise tip: For a richer flavour, dry roast the moong dal until it turns aromatic and lightly browned before adding it to the khichuri.
Time: 5 minutes
In a pan, dry roast the moong dal over medium heat until it turns aromatic and light golden brown.
Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Time: 10 minutes
Heat Sunrise Mustard Oil in a large handi or deep pot over medium heat.
Fry the diced potatoes with some salt until golden brown. Once done, keep them aside.
Fry the cauliflower florets with some salt in the same oil until golden brown. Keep them aside once done.
Time: 5-10 minutes
To the same pot, add coriander seeds, two bay leaves, dried red chillies, chopped tomatoes, ginger paste, and Sunrise Turmeric powder, and sauté them well until the raw smell disappears.
Then add Sunrise Jeera powder, Sunrise Dhaniya powder, some water and sauté for 1-2 minutes until cooked.
Time: 10 minutes
Add the roasted moong dal, washed Gobindobhog rice and some salt to taste to the pot. Mix gently until well combined with the mixture.
Add slitted green chillies, green peas and some water. Mix well and cover the lid to cook the khichuri on low heat for 5 minutes.
Time: 10 minutes
Open the lid and add the previously fried veggies to the cooked khichuri along with some water. Combine well.
Now, cover the lid and cook for 5-10 minutes. The khichuri should have a soft, slightly mushy consistency. If needed, add a bit more hot water.
Time: 2 minutes
Open the lid and garnish the Bhoger Khichuri with fried coconut slices. Serve hot with Begun Bhaja (fried eggplant), Aloo Bhaja (fried potatoes), or Papad.
Side Dish: Crispy Aloo Bhaja (Fried Potatoes), Begun Bhaja (Fried Eggplant)
Accompaniment: Papad, Mango Chutney, Fried Chillies