Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor Khan is well known for her commitment to a healthy lifestyle and her preference for homemade meals. At the launch of nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar's book, she shared how much she enjoys eating khichdi, stating that she could happily consume it five times a week. Kareena humorously mentioned that her cook gets tired of preparing the same meal repeatedly, but she finds comfort in the simple dish, especially when served with a spoonful of ghee.

Khichdi, a traditional Indian dish made of rice and lentils, is often considered a comfort food due to its lightness and digestibility. Its nutritional profile varies depending on the ingredients, but a basic bowl typically includes carbohydrates from rice, protein from lentils, fiber from vegetables, healthy fats from ghee, and essential vitamins and minerals from added spices. Some variations also include vegetables, millets, or quinoa to boost nutritional value.

Dietitian Garima Goyal explains that khichdi is an ideal choice for those with weak digestion, bloating, or acidity as it is gentle on the stomach and aids gut health. Contrary to popular belief, rice-based khichdi does not necessarily lead to weight gain as it is low in calories and high in satiety. Adding vegetables and spices like turmeric can further enhance its health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties.

However, eating khichdi frequently without variation could lead to nutritional deficiencies, especially in protein and diverse nutrients. To maintain a balanced diet, it’s recommended to include different grains, dals, and vegetables in the meal plan.