Barley Quinoa Kichri (Sattvic, wholesome & Nourishing)
Barley (Yava in Sanskrit) is highly regarded in Ayurveda for its lightness, cooling properties, and ability to reduce Kapha and Pitta and the unctuousness also soothes Vata. It's especially beneficial for weight management, blood sugar balance, and urinary health.
Here’s a quick and wholesome recipe that’s great for travel recovery, detox, or anytime you want something grounding and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup pearled barley
- ¾ cup white quinoa
- ¾ cup yellow moong dal
- ¼ cup basmati rice
- ¼ cup split urad dal
Rinse all the grains and dals together and soak for about 30 minutes.
Then strain the soaked water and transfer everything to the Instant Pot.
Water Quantity:
- Add 7cups of water for a thick, creamy consistency.
-
Add 8 cups or more if you prefer it thinner.
Adjust water to your liking—we enjoy it on the thicker, creamy side.
Add Chopped Vegetables:
- 2 cups chopped green & yellow zucchini
- 1 cup chopped butternut squash
- ½ cup chopped carrots
- ½ cup chopped green bell peppers
- ½ cup chopped cabbage
(Optional: You can also add spinach, green beans, or any seasonal veggies you love.)
Seasoning:
- 2 tbsp of ghee or coconut oil
- 1½ tsp Himalayan pink salt
- 1/4 tsp turmeric
Add the oil, salt, and chopped vegetables into the Instant Pot along with the soaked grains.
Use the "Multigrain" function and pressure cook for 40 minutes.
Once done, release the pressure naturally or manually, and open the lid.
Final Tempering:
In a small pan:
- Heat 2 tbsp ghee
- Add 1½ tsp mustard seeds
- Add 8–10 fresh curry leaves
Turn off the heat, then stir in:
- 1½ tbsp coriander powder
- 1½ tsp Kashmiri red chili powder (for color, not too spicy)
Pour this fragrant tempering into the kichri. Then stir in:
- 1 cup coconut milk( home made or any organic brand free from fillers such as xanthum gum, etc)
- Juice of 1 fresh lemon
Mix everything gently and thoroughly.
Garnish & Serve:
- Top with chopped cilantro
- Offer with love to Lord Krishna
- Serve with a generous dollop of ghee and crispy papad on the side(optional)
Servings: about 6.
Enjoy the sattvic meal and the sattvic feel-good mood it brings!
Perfect for calming Vata, nourishing the mind, and grounding the senses.
If you have any questions or comments please use the comment section below. We do love to hear from you.
