How to Make Kitchari for the American Kitchen
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SERVINGS:
4
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PREP TIME:
10 MINUTES
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COOK TIME:
60 MINUTES
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INGREDIENTS
2 tbsp | |
4 c | |
4 leaves | |
1 c | |
1 inch | |
1/2 tsp | |
1/2 c | |
1/4 tsp | |
1/4 tsp | |
PREPARATION OF THIS HEALTHY RECIPE
1. If using dried chick peas, soak the chick pea overnight and drain. Then, add 6c water and bring to a boil, scooping off any foam that forms on the top.
2. Strain out the liquid, and add another 4c of fresh water and return to a boil. Add the ginger, cinnamon and cloves. Cook for one hour.
3. Add rice and any remaining ingredients to broth. Stir. Cover and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes or until grains are tender.
How Does This Ayurvedic Recipe Improve Wellness?
CLINICAL AYURVEDIC REVIEW
Kitchari is Ayurveda's perfect food, indicated in times of recovery as well as cleansing. Kitchari can even be the centerpiece of a mono-diet or fast, as it is a simple food that supplements the healing process. Think of kitchari as the vegetarian equivalent of Grandma's chicken soup, with much more fiber. There are as many ways to make kitchari as there are reasons to consume it. Typical modifications include vegetables such as carrots, greens, zucchini, or potatoes. Spices like cumin, cinnamon, or black pepper can be included, as well as even toasted nuts or coconut. Technically, a kitchari is any dish combining rice and legumes. Traditional kitcharies use mung beans, available at most Asian food stores, because they are an easiest legume to digest. The mung beans in kitchari are also a tonic for the GI tract due to their astringency. This kitchari is especially suited to Kapha and Vata dosha.
Cleanse Your Body
If your belly feels sluggish after too many treats, Kitchari is an easy way to cleanse your digestion and restore freshness. Kitchari offers a true delight to both your body and senses. It is a heart warming synergy of beans, basmati rice, and digestive spices that is easy to prepare. This time tested formula, centuries old, is a complete protein, rich in fiber, cleansing to the digestive tract, and will act to bulk up stool for easier elimination.
To maximize the many benefits your will receive from kitchari, eat it for several meals in a row, such as lunch and dinner on the same day. Once you experience the benefits of kitchari, you'll see how feeling good again is just a few steps away. It just may become addictive! Those who avoid beans because of digestive difficulties should use mung beans or even green beans, which are easier to digest than chick peas
Invigorate Your Metabolism
Spices are the difference between a tasty meal and a bland one, and also the difference between healthy and poor circulation. A well-spiced dish can stimulate your circulation, invigorate your metabolism, and clear out toxins. In this recipe, cloves open up your pores and enhance blood flow to the skin, reducing puffiness and lymphatic congestion. Ginger stimulates the heart. Cinnamon warms your metabolism. Reach for these spices with enthusiasm, but remember: Too much spice is harsh and can leave a burning feeling the intestines. Be aware of your body's reaction to spices. Those with ulcers or inflammation will not benefit from too many spices, but it is helpful for those with sluggish digestion.
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Your Ayurvedic diet is tailored to your individual body and your specific imbalances.
With an Ayurvedic diet you feel joy and satisfaction because what you are eating truly nourishes and balances you.
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