Name: Instant Pot Mixed Lentils & Vegetables Khichdi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 cup mixed lentils (moong dal, masoor dal, toor dal); 1/2 cup rice; 1 onion, chopped; 1 tomato, chopped; 1 carrot, chopped; 1 potato, chopped; 1/2 cup green peas; 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste; 1/2 tsp turmeric powder; 1 tsp cumin seeds; 2-3 green chilies, slit; 4 cups water; Salt to taste; 2 tbsp ghee or oil; Fresh coriander for garnish

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Bowl of Instant Pot Mixed Lentils and Vegetables Khichdi ready to serve.

Discover the Comfort of Instant Pot Mixed Lentils & Vegetables Khichdi

There’s something truly magical about a warm bowl of khichdi, especially when it’s packed with mixed lentils and vibrant vegetables.

This Instant Pot Mixed Lentils & Vegetables Khichdi is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly comforting and perfect for those chilly days when all you want is a hearty meal.

This dish offers a wonderful balance of protein and carbs, making it a nutritious choice for lunch or dinner.

Plus, it’s so easy to prepare in an Instant Pot, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 280
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 10g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 350mg

Why I Love This Instant Pot Mixed Lentils & Vegetables Khichdi

I absolutely adore this khichdi because it feels like a big hug in a bowl! It takes me back to my childhood when my mom would whip up a pot of khichdi whenever we were under the weather or just needed a little comfort food.

What I love most is how versatile it is—it’s packed with different lentils and veggies, so it’s not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some nutritious ingredients.

Plus, whipping it up in the Instant Pot means it’s hands-off cooking at its best, leaving you more time to unwind and enjoy your meal!

Ingredients

1 cup mixed lentils (moong dal, masoor dal, toor dal)
1/2 cup rice
1 onion, chopped
1 tomato, chopped
1 carrot, chopped
1 potato, chopped
1/2 cup green peas
1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp cumin seeds
2-3 green chilies, slit
4 cups water
Salt to taste
2 tbsp ghee or oil
Fresh coriander for garnish

How to Make Instant Pot Mixed Lentils & Vegetables Khichdi

Step 1: Rinse the Lentils and Rice

Rinse the mixed lentils and rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any excess starch and ensures a fluffier consistency. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Start Sautéing

Turn on the Instant Pot and select the ‘Sauté’ mode. Add ghee or oil, and once hot, toss in the cumin seeds and let them splutter, releasing a lovely aroma into your kitchen.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Spices

Add the chopped onions to the pot and sauté until they become translucent. Then, stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for another minute to meld the flavors.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Incorporate the chopped tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, and green peas. Let them cook together for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 5: Mix in Lentils and Rice

Now, add the drained lentils and rice along with turmeric powder and salt. Stir everything well to combine, ensuring each ingredient is evenly distributed.

Step 6: Cook Under Pressure

Pour in the water and give it another stir. Close the lid of the Instant Pot, set it to ‘Manual’ mode, and cook for 10 minutes.

Step 7: Release the Pressure

Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. After that, quick release any remaining pressure.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Fluff the khichdi with a fork, garnish with fresh coriander, and serve it hot, enjoying the delightful aroma that fills your home.

Cooked rice with mixed vegetables inside

Tips & Variations

Serve It Up: Pair your khichdi with a side of yogurt or a tangy mango pickle for an extra boost of flavor.
Make It Your Own: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers based on your preferences.
Diet-Friendly Swaps: For a gluten-free option, just ensure to use gluten-free ingredients and for a spicy kick, add more chilies or a pinch of red chili powder.
Presentation Ideas: Serve it in a deep bowl with a sprinkle of fresh coriander on top and a wedge of lemon on the side for a burst of freshness.

Delicious Variations

Spicy Vegetable Khichdi: Add a mix of spices and other veggies.
Curried Quinoa Khichdi: Swap in quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free twist.
Methi Khichdi: Stir in some fresh fenugreek leaves for a unique flavor.
Masoor Dal Khichdi: Just use red lentils and cook it in a similar manner for a different texture and taste.

Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Mixed Lentils & Vegetables Khichdi

Serve this khichdi warm, topped with a dollop of yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh coriander. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as a comforting lunch. Pair it with crispy papadum and a cooling cucumber salad for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover khichdi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month—just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again. The flavors develop even more over time!

Helpful Questions

Can I use other types of lentils?
Yes, you can use any type of lentils you have on hand; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free ingredients.
Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely! Just replace ghee with a vegetable oil or even coconut oil.
How can I make it spicier?
Simply increase the number of green chilies or add some red chili powder to suit your taste.
What consistency should the khichdi have?
It should be creamy and slightly thick, but if you prefer a runnier consistency, just add a little more water before cooking.

Enjoy making this heartwarming Instant Pot Mixed Lentils & Vegetables Khichdi—it’s sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your belly!