Why is Khichuri preferred on a rainy day?

Bangali's everlasting love for Khichuri is nothing new to any of us. Everyone enjoys having a steaming plateful of khichuri throughout the whole year. But nothing can beat the joy of having khichuri on a rainy day. It's the perfect dish to prepare when it's raining, and one can't go outside.

It holds a sentimental value deeply ingrained into the hearts of every Bengali worldwide. Bengali housewives look at the sky and decide today's menu will be khichuri with some Bhaja-Pora and Bhorta.

In the rainy season, it becomes unbearable for everyone to go outside due to high humidity and temperature. A sudden shower of rain driving down upon the face of the earth can bring much joy to people's lives. So they like to celebrate with piping hot khichuri and simply an omelette or different fries. 

Rice is the key ingredient in the making of khichuri. It forms the backbone of the preparation and offers the desired texture. 

There are numerous reasons why certain food is preferred in certain seasons. The khichuri, for instance, is a one-pot rice dish that is very easy to put together, especially when it's pouring outside; rice, lentils and other ingredients for khichuri are always in stock at home.

In Monsoon, different water-borne diseases spread quickly. Steaming hot dishes like khichuri can prevent or address illnesses like colds, flu or stomach aches and put one at ease.

Throughout the season, people suffer from cough, runny nose, asthma, sinusitis and different allergies. Khichuri contains turmeric, which is well-known for its anti-inflammatory effects.

Khichuri also helps cleanse, detoxify, and remove oxidants from a person's body caused by unhealthy food.

It is an extraordinarily versatile dish. It can be made with various combinations of ingredients. The use of different types of lentils and vegetables can differ in their flavours. 

Consistency, spices, and taste can differ from one household to another. However, despite its differences, khichuri is a very easy meal with jam-packed flavours.

It not only tastes delicious but is also loaded with high nutritious values. Khichuri contains a lot of fibre, which allows for smooth digestion. It soothes our stomach and intestines. Monsoon brings several indigestion issues for which khichuri is the perfect dish.

Lentils can help individuals with diabetes by lowering their blood sugar levels by 20 per cent and improving their response to carbohydrates. It can minimize the chances of heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.

The origin of khichuri stretches far back in time. During his campaign in India, the Greek king Seleucus mentioned that rice with pulses was very popular among the people of the Indian subcontinent. 

The Moroccan traveller Ibn Battuta mentions khichuri as a dish in India composed of rice and mung beans during his stay around 1350.

Khichuri is the ultimate definition of comfort food. It is a way to connect with our roots, a reminder of the warmth and love of home, especially on a day when it's pouring outside.

Its simplicity is a substantial part of its appeal, especially when the weather outside is anything but simple.

It is a reminder that even when the world outside is chaotic, one can find peace and comfort in a simple yet nourishing bowl of goodness.

As rain continues to bless us with its presence, remember that sometimes the simplest things in life are the most comforting.