Sabudana Khichdi is a popular Indian dish made from soaked tapioca pearls (sabudana), peanuts, and mild spices. Traditionally prepared during fasting days like Navratri, it is also a comforting choice for breakfast or a light lunch. This dish is naturally gluten-free and full of soft, chewy texture with a nutty crunch. It’s quick to make if the sabudana is pre-soaked. This recipe serves 2 people.
Ingredients
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1 cup sabudana (tapioca pearls)
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½ cup roasted peanuts
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1 medium potato, peeled and diced
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1 green chili, finely chopped
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1 teaspoon cumin seeds
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2 tablespoons oil or ghee
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Salt to taste
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½ teaspoon sugar (optional)
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Juice of ½ lemon
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2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves, chopped
Instructions
1. Soak the Sabudana
Rinse sabudana under cold water 2–3 times until the water runs clear. Soak it in just enough water to cover the top of the pearls and leave it for at least 5–6 hours, or overnight. When ready, the pearls should be soft and should mash easily between your fingers without any hard center. Drain any excess water.
2. Prep the Peanuts
Grind the roasted peanuts into a coarse powder using a blender or a mortar and pestle. Set aside. You can leave a few whole for extra texture if you like.
3. Cook the Potatoes
Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle. Add chopped green chili and diced potatoes. Cook until the potatoes are golden and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Sabudana
Lower the heat and add the soaked sabudana to the pan. Sprinkle in the ground peanuts, salt, and sugar. Mix gently so the pearls stay intact and don’t get mushy.
5. Cook Until Translucent
Cook uncovered on low heat for about 5–7 minutes, stirring gently every couple of minutes. The sabudana will turn translucent when done. Do not overcook, or they will clump.
6. Finish and Serve
Turn off the heat. Squeeze lemon juice and sprinkle chopped coriander over the top. Give a final gentle mix.
Serve Sabudana Khichdi warm, plain or with a side of yogurt. It’s filling without being heavy, and the combination of soft pearls, crispy potatoes, and crunchy peanuts makes every bite a delight. Perfect for both festive fasting and regular days when you want something light but satisfying.
