How To Make Gujrati Kadhi at home?

About Gujrati Kadhi

Gujrati Kadhi is a traditional and popular yogurt-based dish from the western Indian state of Gujarat. It is a comforting and flavorful soup-like preparation made with yogurt, besan (gram flour), and a blend of aromatic spices. The creamy and tangy Kadhi is usually tempered with mustard seeds, cumin seeds, curry leaves, and other spices, which infuse it with a delightful aroma and taste.

This soothing dish is often served with steamed rice or khichdi (a rice-lentil dish) and accompanied by papad (thin crispy crackers) or fritters for a complete and satisfying meal. Gujrati Kadhi is not only cherished for its unique flavors but also for its digestive and cooling properties, making it a popular choice in the hot and arid climate of Gujarat.

To make Gujrati Kadhi at home, follow this simple recipe:

Ingredients for making Gujrati Kadhi:

• 1 cup plain yogurt (curd)
• 3 tablespoons besan (gram flour)
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 1 green chili, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 8-10 curry leaves
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
• 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions for making Gujrati Kadhi :

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth. Add besan, water, ginger paste, green chili, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well to form a smooth and lump-free mixture. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed.
2. Heat oil or ghee in a large pot or kadhai over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
3. Lower the heat and add asafoetida and curry leaves. Stir for a few seconds until the spices release their aroma.
4. Pour the yogurt-besan mixture into the kadhai while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Cook the Kadhi on low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. If using sugar, add it to the Kadhi and mix well to balance the flavors.
7. Taste and adjust salt and other seasonings as per your preference.
8. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
9. Gujrati Kadhi is now ready to be served. Enjoy it with steamed rice, khichdi, or even as a soup.

Note:

• Be sure to continuously stir the Kadhi after adding the yogurt mixture to prevent curdling.
• For a variation, you can also add cooked and fried pakoras (gram flour fritters) to the Kadhi.

This comforting and flavorful Gujrati Kadhi is a delightful dish that can be easily prepared at home to enjoy the authentic flavors of Gujarat.

How can I prevent Kadhi from curdling?

To prevent Kadhi from curdling, follow these tips:

1. Whisk Yogurt Well: Ensure the yogurt is smooth and well-whisked before adding it to the hot tempering. This helps in even mixing and reduces the chances of curdling.
2. Tempering Technique: Lower the heat when adding yogurt to the tempering. Gradually incorporate the yogurt while stirring continuously to prevent abrupt temperature changes that can cause curdling.
3. Room Temperature Yogurt: Use yogurt at room temperature. Cold yogurt added to hot tempering can cause curdling. Allow yogurt to sit outside the refrigerator for a while before use.
4. Stir Continuously: After adding the yogurt mixture, keep stirring the Kadhi continuously over low to medium heat. This maintains a consistent temperature throughout the mixture and minimizes curdling.

By following these steps, you can achieve a smooth and creamy Kadhi without the risk of curdling.

What can I do if my Kadhi turns out too thick?

If your Gujrati Kadhi turns out too thick, you can easily adjust its consistency by following these steps:

1. Add Water or Buttermilk: Gradually add a little water or buttermilk to the Kadhi while stirring. This will help thin out the consistency and bring it to the desired thickness.
2. Simmer and Mix: Allow the Kadhi to simmer for a few more minutes while stirring. The added liquid will blend with the Kadhi and create a smoother texture.
3. Adjust Spices: As you adjust the consistency, taste the Kadhi and adjust the spices if needed. Sometimes, dilution can slightly alter the flavor, so ensure the seasonings are balanced.
4. Monitor Cooking: Be cautious not to over-thin the Kadhi. Add liquid in small increments and keep checking until you achieve the desired thickness.

With these steps, you can rescue your Kadhi and achieve the perfect consistency that suits your preference.

Nutritional Value of Gujrati Kadhi

The nutritional value of Gujrati Kadhi can vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used in the recipe. Here is a general approximation of the nutritional content for a 1-cup (240 ml) serving of Gujrati Kadhi:

• Calories: Approximately 150-200 kcal
• Carbohydrates: Around 15-20 grams
• Protein: Approximately 6-8 grams
• Fat: Around 8-10 grams
• Fiber: Approximately 2-3 grams
• Sugar: Around 5-8 grams
• Sodium: Approximately 400-500 mg
• Calcium: Around 100-150 mg
• Vitamin C: Approximately 2-4 mg
• Iron: Around 1-2 mg

Please note that these values are rough estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used in the recipe. Gujrati Kadhi is generally a healthy dish as it contains yogurt, which is a good source of calcium and probiotics, and besan (gram flour), which provides protein and some essential nutrients. However, the nutritional content may change if additional ingredients like pakoras (gram flour fritters) or ghee are added. If you are looking for specific nutritional information, it is best to calculate the values based on the ingredients you use in your recipe.

Health Benefits of Gujrati Kadhi

Gujrati Kadhi offers several health benefits due to its nutritious ingredients and cooking method. Some of the health benefits of Gujrati Kadhi include:

1. Probiotics: Kadhi is made with yogurt, which is a rich source of probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support gut health, aid in digestion, and strengthen the immune system.
2. Calcium: Yogurt used in Kadhi is a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth, and plays a crucial role in muscle function and nerve transmission.
3. High Protein Content: Besan (gram flour) used in Kadhi is high in protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle health, and maintaining a healthy immune system.
4. Digestive Aid: The use of ginger and asafetida in Kadhi can help improve digestion and alleviate indigestion and bloating.
5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Turmeric used in Kadhi contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body.
6. Low in Calories: Gujrati Kadhi is relatively low in calories compared to other rich and creamy dishes, making it suitable for those aiming for weight management.
7. Balanced Nutrition: With a combination of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, Gujrati Kadhi provides a balanced nutritional profile.
8. Cooling Effect: Kadhi is often served with rice or khichdi and is considered cooling, especially during hot weather or as a relief for acidity.
9. Hydration: Kadhi is a water-based dish, contributing to overall hydration when consumed as part of a meal.
10. Satiety: The protein and fiber content in Kadhi can help keep you feeling full and satisfied, which may reduce the tendency to overeat.

While Gujrati Kadhi has many health benefits, it is essential to be mindful of portion sizes and the use of additional ingredients like ghee and sugar, which can impact its overall nutritional profile. Moderation and balance in the overall diet are key to obtaining the maximum benefits from this delicious and nutritious dish.

Tips and Tricks for making Gujrati Kadhi

Here are some tips and tricks to make delicious Gujrati Kadhi:

1. Whisk the Yogurt: Ensure that the yogurt is smooth and well-whisked before adding besan to avoid lumps in the Kadhi.
2. Consistency: Adjust the water quantity to achieve the desired consistency of Kadhi. It should be slightly thick but still have a soup-like texture.
3. Tempering Technique: Master the tempering technique by heating the oil or ghee on low flame and adding cumin seeds, mustard seeds, asafetida, and curry leaves in sequence. This enhances the flavors of the Kadhi.
4. Balanced Spices: Use spices like turmeric, ginger, green chili, and optional sugar judiciously to strike a balance between flavors and avoid overpowering the dish.
5. Cooking Time: Simmer the Kadhi on low to medium heat to avoid curdling and to allow the flavors to develop.
6. Avoid Boiling: Once the Kadhi is cooked, avoid boiling it as it may cause the yogurt to curdle.
7. Add Pakoras: For variation, you can add fried gram flour pakoras to the Kadhi. These fritters not only add texture but also enhance the taste.
8. Garnish: Freshly chopped coriander leaves add a burst of freshness to the Kadhi. Don’t skip this step.
9. Serve Fresh: Gujrati Kadhi tastes best when served fresh. Avoid reheating, as it can change the texture.
10. Pairing: Serve Gujrati Kadhi with steamed rice, khichdi, or even as a soup. It also pairs well with roti or paratha.
11. Yogurt Quality: Use fresh and good-quality yogurt for the best results. Avoid yogurt that is too sour.
12. Experiment: Feel free to experiment with the spices and flavors to suit your taste preferences.

Remember, practice makes perfect. With a little trial and error, you can master the art of making flavorful and comforting Gujrati Kadhi to enjoy with your favorite accompaniments.

Serving Suggestions for Gujrati Kadhi

Here are some serving suggestions for Gujrati Kadhi:

1. Steamed Rice: Gujrati Kadhi pairs exceptionally well with plain steamed rice. The creamy and tangy Kadhi complements the mildness of rice, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
2. Khichdi: Serve Kadhi with khichdi, a traditional Indian dish made with rice and lentils. The combination of Kadhi and khichdi is not only delicious but also nutritious.
3. Roti or Paratha: For a different twist, enjoy Gujrati Kadhi with whole wheat roti or paratha. The combination of the mildly spiced Kadhi and the soft bread adds a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
4. Papad: Accompany Kadhi with crispy papads (thin lentil crackers). The crunchy texture of papad complements the smooth Kadhi, adding an enjoyable element to the meal.
5. Vegetable Pulao: Pair Kadhi with vegetable pulao for a flavorful and complete meal. The aromatic rice and vegetables blend harmoniously with the creamy Kadhi.
6. Mixed Salad: To add freshness and a burst of colors, serve a mixed salad with Kadhi. Use cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, and lettuce, and drizzle with a light lemon vinaigrette.
7. Pickle: Some people like to enjoy Kadhi with a side of pickle, such as mango pickle or lemon pickle, for an extra tangy and spicy kick.
8. Roasted Papad Chaat: Crush roasted papads and sprinkle them over the Kadhi to create a delicious chaat-like experience.
9. Chopped Onions: Garnish the Kadhi with finely chopped onions for a crunchy and refreshing element.
10. Boondi: Add a handful of boondi (small chickpea flour balls) to the Kadhi to add texture and flavor.

Remember that Gujrati Kadhi is versatile, and you can experiment with different accompaniments to suit your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy it with rice, bread, or as a standalone soup, Gujrati Kadhi is sure to tantalize your taste buds with its delightful flavors.

FAQs for Gujrati Kadhi