- Maja Novak
Kitchari, simple cleansing Ayurvedic Dish
Kitchari is a nourishing yet simple Ayurvedic dish, which does wonders for our digestive system.
It can be used as a gentle way of cleansing and purifying the body, after we may have indulged throughout the holiday period or any time that we feel like we need a gentle reset.
Ayurveda is Indian holistic medicine system, that focuses on finding the balance between body and mind.

Recipe
- 1 cup yellow split peas, mung dal or lentils
- ½ cup white basmati rice or brown long grain rice
- 2 tbs ghee or coconut oil (I use vegetable ghee)
- 1 tsp Ground coriander
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 1 tsp Fennel seeds
- 1 tsp Ground ginger
- 2 tbsp Black mustard seeds
- 2 tbsp Cumin seeds
- 2 tbsp Turmeric
- 2 to 5 Cardamon pods
- chopped seasonal vegetables (Carrots, butternut squash, broccoli, spinach...)
- Fresh herbs (as coriander or parsley) - 2 Bay leaves 5-8 cups of water
+ season to taste
*the recipe was inspired by East by West, Jasmine Hemsley
What else can we do to gently reset our bodies in winter and give them a rest, so they can build up a strong immune system and stay in balance?
- Drink plenty of warm water or herbal tea throughout the day
- Frequent but moderate gentle exercises (yoga, walking, slow running...)
- 1 tsp of Apple cider vinegar or a mug of water with lemon in the mornings before breakfast - Wholesome nourishing meals, full of vegetables, warming spices and fresh herbs
- Pranayama or breathing techniques to relax the nervous system so it can rest
- Meditation practice
- Journaling, art therapy or any other relaxing activities
Treat your body as your home.
It is a complex, yet beautifully integrated living thing that needs care, attention and love. Rest, digest and restore in winter, so you can keep your energy flowing through the rest of the seasons.