One Pot Digestive Bliss - Lentil & Rice Pilaf

In Ayurveda, food is more than fuel—it’s a way to balance the body and mind. This veggie pilaf is light, flavorful, and easy to digest, making it a perfect meal for any season. Using fragrant basmati rice, colorful veggies, and warming spices, it supports gut health, boosts energy, and promotes overall well-being.

🌱 Spices like cumin, turmeric, and coriander aid digestion and reduce bloating.

🥕 Fresh, seasonal vegetables provide essential nutrients and maintain balance.

🥑 A touch of avocado or coconut oil supports metabolism and keeps you feeling nourished.

This dish is naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and packed with flavor! It’s great for meal prep, pairs well with a cooling yogurt sauce, and can be customized to your dosha needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a mindful meal to support your wellness journey, this Ayurvedic-inspired pilaf is a delicious way to bring balance to your plate.

Watch to above video which descibes the whole recipie:

Ingredients (Serves 2-3)

1 cup basmati rice
½ cup orange lentils (soaked for 4 hours for easier digestion)
3-4 garlic cloves (crushed)
1 cinnamon stick
2-3 cardamom pods
1 bay leaf
1 tbsp cumin seeds
1 tbsp avocado or olive oil
2 ½ cups water (adjust as needed)
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Lemon juice (for extra flavor and to keep the rice fluffy)

Instructions:

Heat oil in a pot, add cumin, cinnamon, cardamom, and bay leaf. Let them release their aroma.
Add soaked lentils and rice, stirring for 2-3 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Pour in water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let cook for 10-15 minutes.
In a separate pan, sauté garlic with vegetables like broccoli and asparagus for added nutrients.
Once the rice and lentils are done, add a squeeze of lemon juice and serve with the sautéed vegetables.

I encourage you to embrace the warmth and nourishment of this dish. Prepare it with care, enjoy it mindfully, and let its comforting flavors bring balance to your body and soul. If you’re interested in deepening your understanding of Ayurveda, explore my self-paced online course, “Nourish and Thrive: Living with the Wisdom of Ayurveda.”