If you are looking for something light, nutritious, and delicious to eat over the weekend, Khichdi is an excellent choice. While Khichdi is often considered food for the sick, with the right spices and the perfect accompaniments, it rivals any special meal. Best of all, it is easy to prepare and gentle on the stomach.

**Ingredients for Tasty Masala Khichdi**
1 cup rice
½ cup moong dal (split yellow lentils)
1 onion, finely chopped
1 tomato, chopped
1 small carrot, chopped
½ cup green peas
1 green chili
1 tsp cumin seeds
¼ tsp turmeric powder
½ tsp red chili powder
1 tsp ghee
Salt to taste
4 to 5 cups water

**Method**
First, wash the rice and moong dal thoroughly and soak them for 15 minutes. Heat the ghee in a pressure cooker and add the cumin seeds. Once the seeds begin to crackle, add the onion and sauté until golden brown. Next, add the green chili, tomato, and all the vegetables, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.

Now, add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Add the soaked rice and dal, and mix well. Pour in the water, close the cooker lid, and cook until 3 to 4 whistles. Once the pressure releases, gently stir the Khichdi. Serve with a little extra ghee drizzled on top.

**What to eat with Khichdi?**
1. Curd (Yogurt)
Cool, fresh curd enhances the flavor of Khichdi significantly. It also aids digestion.

2. Papad
Roasted or fried papad adds a crunchy element to the Khichdi. This is considered a classic combination.

3. Pickle (Achar)
Mango, chili, or lemon pickle adds a tangy twist to the simple flavor of Khichdi.

4. Ghee
Adding a spoonful of *desi* ghee to piping hot Khichdi elevates both its taste and aroma. 

5. Kadhi
Khichdi tastes absolutely delicious when paired with Rajasthani or Gujarati Kadhi, making for a complete meal.

6. Salad
A fresh salad of cucumber, tomato, onion, and carrot adds to the nutritional value of the meal.

Benefits of Eating Khichdi
Khichdi offers a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. It is easy to digest and gentle on the stomach. When prepared with vegetables, it also provides the body with essential vitamins and minerals.

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