Bhoger Khichuri (ভোগের খিচুরি)

 **Bhoger Khichuri** (ভোগের খিচুড়ি) is a traditional Bengali dish prepared during festivals, especially during Durga Puja as an offering (bhog) to the goddess. It’s a fragrant and flavorful rice and lentil dish made with ghee and spices. Here's how you can make it:

### Ingredients:

- **Gobindobhog rice** (or basmati rice) – 1 cup

- **Yellow moong dal (split yellow lentils)** – ½ cup

- **Ghee (clarified butter)** – 3 tablespoons

- **Bay leaves** – 2

- **Cinnamon stick** – 1 small piece

- **Cloves** – 4-5

- **Cardamom pods** – 3-4

- **Cumin seeds** – 1 teaspoon

- **Ginger paste** – 1 tablespoon

- **Green chilies** – 2, slit

- **Turmeric powder** – ½ teaspoon

- **Cumin powder** – 1 teaspoon

- **Garam masala powder** – ½ teaspoon

- **Sugar** – 1 teaspoon (optional)

- **Salt** – to taste

- **Vegetables** (optional: potatoes, peas, cauliflower) – 1 cup

- **Water** – 4 cups

- **Grated coconut** – for garnishing (optional)

### Instructions:

#### Step 1: Roasting the Moong Dal

1. **Dry roast the moong dal:** In a heavy-bottomed pan, dry roast the moong dal on low heat until it turns golden and aromatic. Stir continuously to avoid burning. Set aside once done.

#### Step 2: Preparing the Rice and Dal

2. **Wash the rice and dal:** Rinse the roasted dal and rice together under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.

#### Step 3: Cooking the Khichuri

3. **Heat ghee:** In a large pot or pan, heat 3 tablespoons of ghee on medium heat.

4. **Temper the spices:** Add bay leaves, cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods, and cumin seeds. Sauté until fragrant.

5. **Add ginger and chilies:** Add the ginger paste and slit green chilies. Sauté for a minute until the raw smell of ginger disappears.

6. **Add turmeric and cumin powder:** Mix in the turmeric powder and cumin powder, stirring for 30 seconds.

7. **Add vegetables (optional):** If you are using vegetables like potatoes, peas, or cauliflower, add them now and sauté for a few minutes.

8. **Add rice and dal:** Add the washed rice and roasted moong dal. Stir well to coat the grains with the spices and ghee.

#### Step 4: Simmering

9. **Add water:** Pour in 4 cups of water. Add salt and sugar (if using). Stir everything together.

10. **Cook:** Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice and dal are fully cooked and the water is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

11. **Add garam masala:** Once the khichuri is cooked, sprinkle garam masala powder on top and mix gently.

#### Step 5: Garnishing and Serving

12. **Garnish:** Optionally, garnish the khichuri with grated coconut or fried cashews.

13. **Serve:** Serve the Bhoger Khichuri warm with a side of fried brinjal (eggplant), chutney, or a simple vegetable curry.

Enjoy the aromatic and delicious **Bhoger Khichuri** as part of your festive meal!