The quintessential Kichdi (or Kichri or Kichuri depending on where you’re from) has countless variations. Essentially a rice and lentil pilaf, it can be cooked with a variety of lentil combinations, the proportion of rice to lentil changes, and more interestingly, the consistency of the final dish. Some like it dry like a pilaf, but for me I love it the traditional Bengali way… all mushy, semi-liquid and with more lentil than rice.

Wholesome and nutritious, I fed my toddler daughter far too many bowlfuls often with seasonal vegetables mashed in and stirred through with generous dollops of ghee.

One of the most popular combinations that go with a runny Kichdi is a spicy tomato-based Egg Curry. Who said comfort food has to be naughty? This super easy recipe will have you satiated, and I highly recommend an afternoon siesta right after.