kitchari: An ayurvedic recipe for new mothers

One of the dishes I turn to time and time again, especially in those delicate weeks after childbirth, is Kitchari. There's something incredibly comforting about a bowl of this Ayurvedic classic. It’s warming, nourishing, and cleansing—everything a new mother needs during postpartum.

Kitchari, with its soothing blend of mung beans, rice, and spices like turmeric and ginger, is more than just a meal; it’s a healing ritual. After childbirth, our bodies need time to heal and regain balance.

For me, Kitchari provides that perfect blend of nourishment without overburdening the digestive system. It gently detoxifies while also giving me the strength and warmth I need to recover fully.

Incorporating Kitchari into your postpartum routine isn’t just about eating well—it’s about embracing a dish that supports your body during the forty days of recovery. This recipe is a staple in our home before and after postpartum, it is loved by everyone including our youngest children.

The key to this recipe is making sure you bloom your spices in ghee prior to adding anything else to draw out the flavor.

Ingredients:

• Mung Beans- 1 cup rinsed and soaked at least 3 hours

• 1/2 c Onion chopped (optional)

• Spices: Turmeric-1/2 t Ginger 1/2 in minced, Cumin seeds 1t, Coriander-1/2 t, Mustard Seeds-1/2 t, bay leaf-1 leaf, himalayan salt-1t

  OR

• 1T Kitchari Blend (Banyan Botanicals)

• Cilantro leaves- small handful

• 1T Ghee

• 1/2 can Coconut milk

• 1/2 Avocado

• 5 c Spring Water

• 1/4 c Basmati rice rinsed well

• 1/2 Lime wedge

1. Saute spices until fragrant in 1T ghee.

2. Add onions and saute until translucent (if using)

3. Add mung beans,rice and water and allow mixture to boil. Cover with a lid, simmer on low for at 1- 2 hours. Add water as needed

4. Add coconut milk, simmer for 15-30m

5. Serve mung beans with avocado,lime and cilantro leaves.

6. You can add a variety of options to this dish kefir yogurt,green beans,yams are nice options.

   Looking for more meals specifically designer for postpartum recovery?

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