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Tangy Kadhi Chawal Recipe: A Classic Indian Comfort Food Ready in 45 Minutes

The Kadhi Chawal Recipe is a classic North Indian comfort food that features tangy yogurt-based curry (kadhi) made with gram flour and spices, served over perfectly steamed rice (chawal). This wholesome dish is cherished for its creamy, savory flavor and the comforting warmth it brings. The kadhi is slowly simmered with aromatic spices, creating a delicious blend of flavors that pair perfectly with fluffy rice. Ready in just 45 minutes, this dish is ideal for a cozy meal at home. Serve Kadhi Chawal with papad or pickle for an authentic North Indian experience that will leave you feeling satisfied and comforted.

Kadhi Chawal Recipe
Kadhi Chawal Recipe

How Should Kadhi Chawal Taste?

Kadhi Chawal should have a creamy, tangy, and lightly spiced flavor. The kadhi should be smooth and thick, with a slightly sour taste coming from the yogurt, balanced by the warmth of spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. The pakoras (optional fritters) in the kadhi should be tender and add a nice contrast to the creaminess of the curry. The chawal (rice) should be fluffy and perfectly cooked to absorb the flavors of the kadhi. The overall taste should be comforting and flavorful, with the perfect combination of tanginess, warmth from spices, and a hint of sweetness from the onions in the kadhi.

Kadhi Chawal Recipe
Kadhi Chawal Recipe

How to Make it Super Yummy or Perfect?

To make the best Kadhi Chawal, follow these simple tips:

  1. Use Fresh Yogurt: Fresh yogurt gives the kadhi its tangy flavor without being overly sour, resulting in a well-balanced dish.
  2. Whisk Well: Make sure to whisk the yogurt and gram flour thoroughly to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth consistency.
  3. Add Pakoras for Texture: Adding gram flour fritters (pakoras) to the kadhi makes it more filling and adds a delicious texture.
  4. Slow Simmer the Kadhi: Cooking the kadhi slowly allows the flavors to develop and prevents the yogurt from curdling.
  5. Add a Final Tempering: Adding a tadka (tempering) of mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and dried red chilies at the end enhances the flavor of the kadhi, making it more aromatic and flavorful.

Read More: Delicious Dum Aloo Recipe: A Classic Indian Curry Ready in 40 Minutes

Kadhi Chawal Recipe

Kadhi Chawal Recipe

Kadhi Chawal is a classic North Indian comfort food featuring a tangy yogurt-based curry served over steamed rice. Ready in 45 minutes, it’s perfect for a cozy meal at home.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian, North Indian
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Large pot
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

For Kadhi:

  • 2 cups yogurt
  • 4 tbsp gram flour (besan)
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 4 cups water

For Pakoras (Optional):

  • 1 cup gram flour (besan)
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Water (as needed to make a batter)
  • Oil (for frying)

For Tempering:

  • 2 tbsp oil or ghee
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 2 dried red chilies
  • A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Kadhi Mixture:

  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the yogurt and gram flour until smooth.
  • Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and water. Mix well and set aside.

Prepare the Pakoras (Optional):

  • In a separate bowl, combine gram flour, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.
  • Add water gradually to make a thick batter.
  • Heat oil in a frying pan and drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil.
  • Fry until the pakoras are golden brown. Drain on paper towels and set aside.

Cook the Kadhi:

  • Heat oil or ghee in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, dried red chilies, and asafoetida. Let them splutter.
  • Pour in the yogurt mixture and stir continuously until it comes to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat and let the kadhi simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add Pakoras to Kadhi (Optional):

  • Once the kadhi is cooked and thickened, add the fried pakoras and simmer for another 5 minutes.
  • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Serve:

  • Serve hot over steamed rice with a side of pickle or papad.

Notes

  • Variation: You can add chopped spinach or methi (fenugreek leaves) to the pakora batter for added flavor.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Serving Tip: Serve Kadhi Chawal with a side of sliced onions and lemon wedges for an added burst of freshness.

Conclusion

This Kadhi Chawal Recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a comforting and delicious North Indian meal. The combination of tangy kadhi, fluffy rice, and aromatic spices is both satisfying and hearty. Ready in just 45 minutes, Kadhi Chawal is a great choice for family dinners or when you’re craving a simple yet flavorful dish. Serve it hot with papad or pickle and experience the authentic taste of this classic Indian comfort food. Try this recipe today and bring the warmth and goodness of Kadhi Chawal to your home!

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