Kamut Kitchiri

Kamut Kitchiri Recipe - Vegan Food from India

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours 30 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Kamut Kitchiri is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the nutty flavor of kamut with the earthy taste of lentils and a blend of aromatic spices. This hearty dish is perfect for a comforting meal on a cold day or as a satisfying side dish.

History

Kamut Kitchiri is a traditional Indian dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is often served during festivals and special occasions, as well as a simple and wholesome meal for everyday dining. The combination of kamut and lentils provides a good source of protein and fiber, making it a popular choice for vegetarians and vegans.

Ingredients

1 cup kamut, rinsed and drained
4 cups water
1 cup green lentils, rinsed and drained
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp ground coriander
2 tsp cumin seeds
2 whole cloves
3 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
2 bay leaves
3 inches stick cinnamon
2 tsp tomato paste
3 cups vegetable stock or broth
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
chopped cilantro for garnish

How to prepare

In a medium saucepan, combine kamut and water and bring it to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook until the grains are chewy but not hard in the center, about 2 hours.
Remove from heat, drain if necessary, and transfer to a medium bowl to cool.
Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine lentils and enough boiling water to cover. Set aside for 30 minutes. Drain.
In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium heat.
Add onion and garlic and cook, stirring often, until the onion is soft, for 5 minutes.
Add spices, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and tomato paste. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, for 1 minute.
Add stock and bring it to a boil.
Add kamut and lentils. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 20 minutes.
Discard the cinnamon stick and bay leaves.
Season with salt and pepper.
Serve sprinkled with chopped cilantro if desired.

Variations

Add diced vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Use different spices such as turmeric, paprika, or chili powder to change up the flavor profile.
Substitute other grains such as quinoa or brown rice for the kamut.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse and drain the kamut and lentils before cooking to remove any debris or excess starch.

- Cooking the kamut until it is chewy but not hard in the center will ensure a perfect texture in the final dish.

- Toasting the spices before adding them to the dish will help to enhance their flavors and aromas.

- Adjust the amount of spices to suit your personal taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Kamut Kitchiri can be served as a main dish with a side of vegetables or salad. It can also be enjoyed as a side dish with grilled meats or fish.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for this recipe include boiling, simmering, and sautéing. These methods help to develop the flavors and textures of the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have kamut, you can substitute with farro or barley. You can also use green or brown lentils instead of red lentils.

Make Ahead Tips

Kamut Kitchiri can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Kamut Kitchiri with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or a dollop of yogurt for a pop of color and freshness. Serve in a decorative bowl or plate for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a side of naan bread, raita, or a cucumber salad. For a complete meal, serve with grilled chicken or tofu.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Kamut Kitchiri contains approximately 300 calories, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Carbohydrates

Kamut Kitchiri is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your body. The kamut and lentils in this dish are complex carbohydrates, which are digested more slowly and provide a steady source of energy.

Fats

This dish is relatively low in fat, with the vegetable oil being the main source of fat. You can adjust the amount of oil used to suit your dietary preferences.

Proteins

Kamut Kitchiri is a great source of plant-based proteins, thanks to the kamut and lentils. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and B vitamins. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but be sure to check for any specific allergies or dietary restrictions before serving.

Summary

Kamut Kitchiri is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential nutrients. It is a healthy and delicious option for a meal or side dish.

Summary

Kamut Kitchiri is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a comforting meal or side dish. With a blend of aromatic spices, hearty kamut, and protein-rich lentils, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you feeling full and satisfied. Enjoy this traditional Indian dish as a wholesome and delicious addition to your meal rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Kamut Kitchiri. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting an old friend who had recently returned from her travels in India. As we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping chai tea, she began to tell me about all the wonderful foods she had experienced during her journey.

One dish in particular caught my attention – Kamut Kitchiri. She described it as a comforting and nourishing dish made with kamut, a type of ancient grain, and a blend of aromatic spices. I was intrigued and asked her if she had a recipe to share. She smiled and nodded, pulling out a worn and stained piece of paper from her recipe box.

As she read off the ingredients and method, I was captivated by the simplicity and depth of flavors in the dish. I knew I had to try making it myself. My friend graciously shared the recipe with me, and I made a mental note to gather the ingredients and give it a go when I returned home.

When I finally had the chance to make Kamut Kitchiri, I was filled with excitement and anticipation. I carefully measured out the kamut, lentils, and spices, taking care to follow each step exactly as my friend had instructed. The aromas that filled my kitchen as the dish simmered on the stove were intoxicating – a blend of cumin, coriander, and turmeric that transported me back to my friend's kitchen in India.

After letting the Kitchiri cool slightly, I took my first bite and was immediately transported to a place of comfort and warmth. The creamy texture of the kamut mixed with the earthy flavors of the spices was like a hug in a bowl. I knew in that moment that this dish would become a staple in my repertoire, a recipe that I would cherish and pass down through the generations.

Over the years, I have made Kamut Kitchiri countless times, each batch a little different than the last as I tweak and perfect the recipe to my taste. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with its comforting and nourishing qualities. It has become a dish that is synonymous with love and connection in my household, a reminder of the time I spent with my friend in her kitchen, learning about the wonders of Indian cuisine.

I like to think of recipes as time capsules, capturing moments and memories in each ingredient and technique. Kamut Kitchiri will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy that comes from exploring new flavors and techniques in the kitchen. And as I continue to cook and create, I know that there will always be new recipes waiting to be discovered and shared with loved ones.