Our Vegan Sabudana Khichdi Recipe

Indian cuisine is beloved for its diverse flavors and endless variety, making it one of the most popular food cultures worldwide.

While many people are familiar with dishes like tikka masala, naan, and chapati, there are plenty of lesser-known gems worth discovering. 

One such dish is Sabudana Khichdi—a savory, satisfying meal made from tapioca pearls, and we’re here to show you how to make this delightful vegan version.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about this delicious dish, including the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to whip up a perfect bowl of Sabudana Khichdi at home.

Why We Love Sabudana Khichdi (Vegan)

1. Nutrient-Packed and Healthy: Sabudana Khichdi is high in vitamin C, complex carbs, and fiber, making it a filling and balanced meal. It’s also naturally gluten-free and, when made with oil instead of ghee, completely vegan.

2. Perfect for Fasting: Sabudana Khichdi is commonly enjoyed during fasting periods, especially in Hindu households, as it provides energy without using grains. Simply replace regular salt with rock salt if fasting.

3. Versatile: You can add your favorite vegetables like peas, carrots, or onions to customize this dish. Its mild, neutral flavor makes it an ideal canvas for experimenting with different ingredients and spices.

Ingredients For Sabudana Khichdi

Ready to get started? Here’s what you’ll need to make this vegan Sabudana Khichdi:

• 1 cup sabudana (tapioca pearls) – Rinse well and soak for 2-3 hours.
• 1 medium potato, diced – Adds a soft, comforting texture.
• 2 tablespoons oil – Use vegetable or sunflower oil for cooking.
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds – For traditional Indian flavor.
• 2-3 green chilies, chopped – Adjust according to your spice preference.
• 10-12 curry leaves – Adds aromatic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger – Optional but adds a nice zing.
• ¼ cup roasted peanuts, coarsely ground – For added crunch and flavor.
• Salt and sugar to taste – A pinch of both balances the flavors.
• Juice of 1 lime – For freshness and tang.
• 2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves (cilantro), chopped – For garnish.

How To Make Vegan Sabudana Khichdi

Now that you have your ingredients follow these simple steps to make a delicious vegan Sabudana Khichdi:

Preparing the Sabudana

1. Rinse the Sabudana: Thoroughly rinse 1 cup of Sabudana under running water to remove excess starch. Soak the rinsed pearls in 2 cups of water for 2-3 hours or until they have doubled in size and become soft. Drain well before cooking.

Cooking the Khichdi

1. Heat the oil: In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and cook until they start to splutter.
2. Cook the potatoes: Add the diced potato to the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes until they are soft and golden brown. (If pre-boiled, cook for just 2-3 minutes.)
3. Add the aromatics: Toss in the chopped green chilies, grated ginger (if using), and curry leaves. Sauté for about 1 minute to release their flavors.
4. Combine the Sabudana: Add the drained sabudana, roasted peanuts, salt, and a small pinch of sugar. Stir everything together, making sure the tapioca pearls are well coated with the spices.
5. Cook gently: Cover the pan and cook the mixture for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to overcook, as the sabudana can become too soft or mushy.
6. Finish with lime and coriander: Once cooked, turn off the heat and squeeze the juice of one lime over the khichdi. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.

Variations of Sabudana Khichdi

1. Onion Sabudana Khichdi: For a little extra flavor, add chopped onions at the same time as the potatoes. Sauté until golden and follow the rest of the recipe as is.

2. Fasting Sabudana Khichdi: If you’re making this dish during a fast, replace regular salt with rock salt and omit any ingredients that might not be allowed, such as garlic or ginger.

Final Thoughts

Sabudana Khichdi is one of those comforting, satisfying dishes that are perfect for any time of day.

Whether you’re fasting, looking for a gluten-free meal, or simply want to try something new, this vegan recipe has all the flavor and texture you need.

We hope you enjoy making this simple yet delicious dish at home!

Frequently Asked Questions