Happy Spring!
In Ayurveda, Springtime not only melts the snow and warms the frozen earth, but internally a similar process is occurring. In Winter, Kapha energy (water and earth elements) accumulates and the warmth of Spring literally loosens up and melts this energy and makes it free flowing in our system. If our body/mind systems are not able to process and eliminate this outpouring, then the accumulation can lead to an imbalance of our elemental energies and cause unpleasant symptoms. To keep our systems balanced, Spring is always an excellent time for a gentle cleanse.
Kitchari is a delicious Indian recipe made primarily of Basmati Rice and Moong Dal that is gentle on our digestive systems, and works to balance all doshas by taking any excess accumulations out of the body. Use Kitchari as a meal replacement and/or in addition to any other cleans you may be implementing. I have found it works great as a compliment to juicing or a master cleanse.
The below recipe is one of my favorites, sourced at www.Ayurveda.com. I purchase the Indian ingredients at Whole Foods or at Masala Mahal in Scarborough, ME.
Ingredients:
1 C Basmati Rice
2 C Moong Dal (split yellow)
7 C Boiling Water
pinch of Salt
2 TBS Ghee
2 tsp Cumin Seeds
2 tsp Fennel Seeds
2 tsp Turmeric
pinch of Asafoetida
Optional: Add favorite vegetables or other spices
Directions:
Rinse Rice and Dal separately in at least two washings.
Add Ghee to pan on medium heat with seeds for a few minutes until they pop
Add Spices, Dal and Salt to the pan and cook for a few minutes
Add Boiling water and simmer for 25 minutes until Dal becomes softer
Add Rice and any Vegetables and cook until Rice is done, usually 15-20 more minutes
Mixture should have absorbed all water, if more water is needed during cooking, add it.
Enjoy!
