Sabudana Khichdi Recipe (Fluffy & Non-Sticky) – Indian Special

Sabudana Khichdi is a popular Indian dish, especially enjoyed during fasting (vrat) days like Navratri. Made with tapioca pearls (sabudana), roasted peanuts, and a flavorful tempering of cumin, green chilies, and curry leaves, this dish is light, filling, and delicious. When cooked correctly, the sabudana turns soft and fluffy, not sticky. It’s a wholesome combination of carbohydrates and healthy fats, making it a great energy booster. Perfect for breakfast, a light meal, or fasting days—this non-sticky version is a must-try

  • Prep Time10 min
  • Cook Time15 min
  • Total Time25 min

For the Khichdi:

  • 1 cup sabudana (tapioca pearls)
  • 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped
  • 1 medium potato, peeled and diced small
  • 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, coarsely crushed
  • 8-10 curry leaves
  • Rock salt (sendha namak), to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (for slight sweetness)

Soak and Prep Sabudana:

1

Rinse sabudana under running water until water runs clear (to remove starch).

2

Soak in just enough water to cover them (about 1 inch above sabudana) for 6–8 hours or overnight.

3

After soaking, drain any excess water.

4

Press a few pearls between fingers—if they mash easily, they’re ready.

5

Fluff them with a fork and mix in crushed peanuts and salt. Set aside.

Cook the Khichdi:

6

Heat ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat.

7

Add cumin seeds. Let them splutter.

8

Add curry leaves and green chilies (and ginger if using).

9

Sauté for a few seconds.

10

Add diced potatoes. Cook until they are tender and slightly golden.

11

Add the prepared sabudana-peanut mixture.

12

Stir gently and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pearls turn translucent.

13

Optional: Add sugar and lemon juice at the end. Mix well and cook for 1 more minute.

Serve:

14

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

15

Serve hot with lemon wedges or plain yogurt on the side.

Recipe Notes :

Soaking Tip : Don’t oversoak sabudana, and avoid excess water to keep it non-sticky.

Potato Option : Boiled potatoes can also be used to reduce cooking time.

Fasting Friendly : Use rock salt during fasting days.

Storage : Best eaten fresh. Leftovers can be refrigerated and lightly reheated with a splash of ghee.