Protein-Packed Lal Saag Quinoa Khichdi Recipe for Healthy Indulgence

Eating healthy doesn't mean sacrificing flavor, especially with the vibrant tastes of Indian cuisine. This lal saag quinoa khichdi is a delightful fusion that promises both nutrition and taste.

Fitness influencer Vanshika Khurana recently shared this nutritious recipe, featuring quinoa and red amaranth, renowned for its health benefits. Red amaranth contains two to three times more fiber than spinach, promoting gut health.

Each serving of this khichdi packs a whopping 25 grams of protein and 11.5 grams of fiber, all within just 420 calories. Here’s how you can make this delicious dish.

Ingredients for Red Amaranth Quinoa Khichdi:

• ¼ cup quinoa
• ¼ cup yellow moong dal
• ¼ cup masoor dal
• 2-2.5 cups water
• ½ cup green peas
• 1 small carrot, finely chopped

For Tadka:

• ½ bunch red amaranth leaves, chopped
• 120 g tofu, cubed
• 1 tsp ghee
• 1 tsp jeera (cumin seeds)
• 2 green chilies, chopped
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• 2-3 tbsp chopped onion
• 1 tbsp peanuts

Masalas:

• ½ tsp red chili powder
• ¼ tsp turmeric powder
• ½ tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ tsp amchur (dried mango powder)
• Juice of ½ lemon

Preparation Method:

1. Rinse the quinoa and dals thoroughly. Add them to a pressure cooker with water, peas, and carrots. Cook for 3 whistles until soft.
2. In a pan, heat ghee and add jeera, followed by green chilies and ginger-garlic paste.
3. Add chopped onions and peanuts, sauté until golden brown.
4. Incorporate the chopped red amaranth leaves and the cooked khichdi.
5. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.
6. Add tofu along with the prepared masalas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Finish off with a squeeze of lemon juice.

This wholesome khichdi is not just filling but also a powerhouse of nutrients, making it a perfect meal for any time of the day.