Kitchari is a simple dish made with rice and lentils, and is said to be balancing for all three doshas.
Benefits of Kitchari include:
- Kitchari is a nutrient-rich dish that provides a variety of essential vitamins and minerals.
- It balanced all three doshas.
- When eaten as a cleanse, it can reset your system.
- Kitchari makes for a perfect meal for those with digestive issues or who are recovering from an illness.
Plus many other benefits which you will learn in this guide.
Also read our guide on the 7 benefits of swishing Coconut Oil.
The ancient benefits of Kitchari
The history of Kitchari dates back to the Vedic period in India.
It was said to be a dish that was balanced for all three doshas, and was often used as a detoxifying cleanse.
Kitchari is nutrient-rich and easy to digest, making it a perfect meal for those with digestive issues or who are recovering from an illness.
Today, Kitchari is still considered a healing meal in Ayurveda.
It is said to be beneficial for all three doshas, and is often used as a detoxifying cleanse.
Kitchari is also nutrient-rich, providing a variety of essential vitamins and minerals.
And finally, because it is easy to digest, Kitchari is ideal for those with digestive issues or who are recovering from an illness.
Benefits of Kitchari include balancing all three doshas
Kitchari can benefit all three doshas by balancing them out.
But how does this happen?
Well, Kitchari is made with rice and lentils.
Rice is grounding and nourishing, while lentils are light and energizing.
This combination makes Kitchari perfect for those who need a little bit of both.
For example, if you are feeling fatigued, the rice will help to ground you and give you energy.
And if you are feeling stressed, the lentils will help to relax you.
Here is how each of the doshas are balanced by Kitchari:
How Kitchari benefits the Vata Dosha
Kitchari is a perfect meal for those with a Vata constitution, as it balances and stabilizes the energy. Kitchari is also grounding, which helps to calm and soothe the mind.
How Kitchari benefits the Pitta Dosha
Kitchari is cooling and cleansing, making it ideal for those with a Pitta constitution. It helps to pacify the heat in the body and restore balance.
How Kitchari benefits the Kapha Dosha
Kitchari is light and warming, which helps to balance the Kapha dosha.
It is also detoxifying, which helps to expel toxins from the body.
A simple recipe for kitchari
Stovetop Kitchari Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white basmati rice
- 1/2 cup moong dal or split yellow lentils
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- sea salt to taste
- ghee or olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice and lentils several times.
- Add the rice, lentils, water, turmeric, cumin seeds, and salt to a medium pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- If using a Instant Pot, set it to Manual mode for 12 minutes.
- Once the time is up, allow the pressure cooker to release naturally for 10 minutes, then release any remaining pressure manually.
- Stir in a tablespoon of ghee or olive oil, then serve warm. Enjoy as is, or with a dollop of yogurt and fresh cilantro.
Instant Pot Kitchari Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white basmati rice
- 1/2 cup moong dal or split yellow lentils
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- sea salt to taste
- ghee or olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice and lentils several times.
- Add the rice, lentils, water, turmeric, cumin seeds, and salt to the Instant Pot.
- Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on Manual mode for 12 minutes.
- Once the time is up, allow the pressure cooker to release naturally for 10 minutes, then release any remaining pressure manually.
- Stir in a tablespoon of ghee or olive oil, then serve warm. Enjoy as is, or with a dollop of yogurt and fresh cilantro.
Tips for incorporating Kitchari into your diet
If you’re new to Kitchari, start by incorporating it into your diet once a week.
You can enjoy it as a main dish, or add it to soups and stews.
Kitchari is also a great way to add more rice and lentils to your diet. If you have digestive issues, make sure to eat Kitchari mindfully and slowly.
Listen to your body and see how it responds. If you find that Kitchari aggravates your digestive symptoms, discontinue use and consult with your physician.
Kitchari is a versatile dish that can be made to suit any taste.
If you’re looking for more of a savory flavor, add extra cumin or ginger.
For a sweeter Kitchari, add squash or sweet potato. You can also add vegetables such as kale, zucchini, or green beans.
A Kitchari cleanse is a great way to reset your system
A Kitchari cleanse can be done anytime you feel the need to reset your system. It is a simple and gentle way to cleanse the body, and can be done for anywhere from 3-21 days.
During a Kitchari cleanse, you will eat Kitchari for every meal.
You can also drink herbal teas and water with fresh lemon juice throughout the day.
If you’re looking for a more in-depth cleanse, you can add daily oil massages and dry brushing to your routine.
Here is how you can get started with a Kitchari cleanse:
Then, follow these tips:
- Start with a one-day cleanse and then increase to three days.
- Drink a lot of water, especially warm water with lemon.
- Caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods should all be avoided.
- Take your time eating Kitchari slowly and carefully.
- Pay attention to how your body feels while you eat it.
The nutritional benefits of Kitchari ingredients
Kitchari is a nutrient-rich dish that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is also a good source of protein and fiber.
Kitchari is easy to digest and is a great way to get all the benefits of rice and lentils in one meal.
Some of the benefits of Kitchari’s main ingredients include:
- Rice is a good source of carbohydrates and is low in fat. It also contains thiamin, niacin, and vitamin B6.
- Lentils are a good source of protein, fiber, and iron. They also contain folate, potassium, and magnesium.
- Turmeric is a powerful antioxidant that has anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Cumin seeds are a good source of zinc, magnesium, and manganese. They are also anti-inflammatory and help to reduce pain.
- Ghee is rich in vitamins A, D, and E. It also contains fatty acids that help to nourish the skin.
Kitchari is a nutrient-rich dish that provides a variety of essential vitamins and minerals.
It is also easy to digest, making it an ideal meal for those with digestive issues or who are recovering from an illness.
Common questions about the benefits of kitchari
Can you eat Kitchari everyday?
Kitchari is a nutrient-rich dish that can be enjoyed everyday.
However, if you have digestive issues, make sure to eat Kitchari mindfully and slowly.
Is Kitchari good for weight loss?
Kitchari can be a helpful tool for weight loss because it is low in fat and calories.
Why is Kitchari healthy?
Kitchari is healthy because it is a balanced, nutrient-rich meal that is easy to digest.
It is perfect for those with digestive issues or who are recovering from an illness.
Kitchari is said to be balancing for all three doshas, making it a perfect meal for anyone looking for a detoxifying cleanse.
How often can you eat Kitchari?
Kitchari can be eaten daily, and is especially beneficial for those who are looking for a balanced meal.
It is easy to digest and packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for those with digestive issues or who are recovering from an illness.
What can I expect from a Kitchari cleanse?
If you are interested in trying a Kitchari cleanse, there are a few things you can expect.
First, you will likely lose weight as the Kitchari cleanse detoxifies your body.
You may also experience an increase in energy and better digestion.
Lastly, you will likely feel refreshed and rejuvenated after completing the cleanse.
Does Kitchari cause constipation?
Kitchari is also a good source of protein and minerals, which makes it a nourishing meal for those who are recovering from an illness or dealing with digestive issues.
Is Kitchari good for constipation?
The benefits of Kitchari are many, including its ability to help relieve constipation. Kitchari is a balanced dish that is easy to digest, making it ideal for those with digestive issues.
