How to Make Kadhi with Rice (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Kadhi with Rice is a cherished North Indian comfort food, loved for its tangy and aromatic flavors. Kadhi is a spiced yogurt-based curry thickened with besan (gram flour) and tempered with fragrant Indian spices, while rice (chawal) provides a wholesome, neutral backdrop. This dish is especially popular in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, where each region brings its own twist to the recipe. The creamy kadhi contrasts beautifully with the fluffy steamed rice, making it a satisfying meal for lunch. Kadhi with Rice is not just a daily staple but also features at family gatherings, festivals, and community feasts, where it brings people together over a nourishing meal. The light, digestible nature of kadhi makes it ideal for the hot Indian summers as well as for comforting the soul during monsoons. Its simplicity, minimal use of oil, and protein-rich base make it a favorite for health-conscious families. This healthy adaptation uses minimal ghee, low-fat dahi (curd), and is packed with the goodness of besan and rice, making it both delicious and suitable for calorie trackers.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Low-fat dahi (curd) (whisked)
- 3 tablespoons Besan (gram flour) (sifted)
- 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric powder (haldi)
- 1/2 teaspoon Red chilli powder (lal mirch)
- 1/2 teaspoon Cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1/2 teaspoon Mustard seeds (rai)
- 8-10 leaves Curry leaves (kadi patta)
- 1/2 inch Ginger (finely grated)
- 1 Green chilli (slit)
- a pinch Hing (asafoetida)
- to taste Salt
- 1 teaspoon Ghee (or cold-pressed oil)
- 2 cups Cooked rice (steamed, preferably basmati)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh coriander (chopped, for garnish)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · In a mixing bowl
In a mixing bowl, whisk together low-fat dahi and besan till smooth and lump-free. Add turmeric, red chilli powder, and salt. Mix in 2 cups of water to achieve a thin, pourable consistency.
Step 2 · Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed kadhai
Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed kadhai. Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and let them splutter. Add hing, curry leaves, grated ginger, and green chilli. Sauté for 1 minute till aromatic.
Step 3 · Lower the flame and slowly pour the besan-curd mixture into the kadhai
Lower the flame and slowly pour the besan-curd mixture into the kadhai, stirring continuously to prevent curdling.
Step 4 · Increase the heat to medium and cook
Increase the heat to medium and cook, stirring often, until the kadhi thickens slightly and raw besan smell disappears (about 10-12 minutes).
Step 5 · Meanwhile
Meanwhile, steam rice in a separate vessel or electric cooker until soft and fluffy. Keep covered.
Step 6 · Check seasoning in kadhi
Check seasoning in kadhi. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve kadhi hot over steamed rice.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Kadhi with Rice recipe is a healthy choice because it leverages low-fat dairy, high-fiber besan, and minimal oil. The use of spices such as turmeric and hing aids digestion and boosts immunity. The combination of protein, healthy carbs, and low fat makes it suitable for weight management, diabetes, and balanced vegetarian diets.
A note on tradition
Kadhi with Rice is deeply rooted in North Indian tradition, served especially during festivals like Holi and family gatherings. In Punjab, kadhi is often paired with pakoras, while in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, it is enjoyed plain or with seasonal vegetables. The dish is valued for its simplicity and nourishing qualities, and is commonly prepared on auspicious days when light, sattvic food is preferred.