Kitchari
Beloved One,
Welcome to the delicious, nurturing foundation of Kitchari. Kitchari is a beautiful rice dish derived from the ancient teachings of Panchakarma in Ayurveda and is seen as one of the greatest medicines for nourishing our digestion. While this can be eaten as a regular meal, it is also used as a detox. For the first three days, keep it simple. When making the kitchari, focus more on the rice, beans and spices. Day four start slowly incorporating the vegetables and continue for 7 days to detox your system. This can be eaten for breakfast, lunch and dinner (avoid snacking between meals) to help clean out your system, reduce inflammation, rebalance your digestion and cleanse the body. Kitchari can be adapted to best heal the dosha that is out of balance, otherwise known as healing the vikruti. Remember that in order to balance out your vikruti (current state of imbalance), you must know your prakruti (birth constitution). Feel free to take these quizzes below to learn more about yourself and your needs:
Discover your Prakruti: https://stir-studios.involve.me/prakruti
Discover your Vikruti: https://stir-studios.involve.me/dosha-vikruti-quiz?isThroughCName=0
MAIN INGREDIENTS (SERVES 3-4)
1/2 cup basmati rice
1/2 cup mung dhal
5 cups (approx.) water
1-2 tablespoons of turmeric
¼ teaspoon himalayan salt
2 tsp. ghee or oil (Dosha-specific oil recommendations below)
Toppings: Handful of fresh cilantro leaves, coconut oil, Lime, black pepper
Spices and Additions by dosha dosha:
Vata (v):
1 cup pumpkin, diced
1-2 handfuls of kale
1 onion, chopped
1-2 inches fresh ginger, grated or sliced into matchsticks
1 teaspoon black mustard seeds
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon hing (asafoetida),
3-4 cloves or ajwain
2 Tablespoons coconut milk
*More soupy, more water, increase rice to bean ratio
Pitta (P):
½ cup carrots
Handful of bitter greens,
½ cup cauliflower
1 teaspoon curry leaves,
1 teaspoon fenugreek,
1 teaspoon basil
*Equal parts rice and beans, equal parts water, medium soupy
Kapha (K):
1 cup red and yellow bell peppers
1 cup broccoli
1 teaspoon coriander
1 teaspoon lemongrass
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon cardommom
*Less water, more stew-like, increase bean to rice ratio, Reduce ghee or omit
Directions: -
1) Soak rice and dal overnight and wash and drain until water runs clear.
2) Prep and chop all ingredients according to your doshic needs and ensure the vegetables are chopped into small pieces.
3) In a large stock pot, heat ghee over medium heat and add the spices. Sauté for a minute or two until fragrant. You will hear the seeds begin to pop. If using powdered herbs, your nose will let you know when they are ready.
4) Toss in the veggies, rice, dal, and water then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low and cover. Cook for 30-45 minutes until the vegetables are soft and tender.
5) Add additional water as needed to pacify your dosha. Kitchari ranges from the consistency of a dense stew or can be watered down to that of a soup.
6) Top with additional ghee and the rest of your unique toppings.
Your healing journey starts now. Whether you’re seeking emotional release, physical balance, or spiritual growth, I’m here to guide you with personalized yoga therapy, Ayurvedic coaching, and creative healing practices. Don’t wait to experience the transformation you deserve. Book your session today and begin your path to deeper wellness and inner peace.
With Love,
Mystic
