New Delhi: Ganji is a comforting and nutritious dish prepared during the holy month of Ramadan in South India. This warm, porridge-like meal is commonly enjoyed at Iftar, the evening meal that breaks the fast. Light on the stomach yet rich in essential nutrients, it helps replenish the body after a day of fasting. Made with rice, lentils, and aromatic spices, Ganji provides instant energy and hydration. The dish is often infused with mild spices such as turmeric, black pepper, and cumin seeds, which aid digestion and enhance its subtle flavour.
The addition of coconut milk lends it a rich, creamy texture, making it both comforting and delicious. This dish holds a special place in Ramadan traditions, often prepared in large portions and shared with family, neighbours, and those in need.
Ramadan Special Ganji Recipe
Made with rice, lentils, and aromatic spices, this dish is gentle on the stomach and packed with essential nutrients, helping to restore energy after a long day of fasting.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup rice (preferably broken rice or parboiled rice)
- ¼ cup moong dal (yellow lentils)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or ghee
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2–3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1-inch piece of ginger (grated)
- 2 green chillies (slit)
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp black pepper powder
- ½ tsp cumin seeds
- ½ tsp fennel seeds
- ½ cup coconut milk (optional, for extra flavour)
- 4–5 cups water or vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- Curry leaves and coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Rinse and soak: Wash the rice and moong dal under running water, then soak for around 20 minutes.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a pan, heat coconut oil or ghee. Once hot, add cumin, fennel, onions, garlic, ginger, green chillies, and curry leaves. Sauté until fragrant.
- Cook the base: Add turmeric, black pepper, and the soaked rice-dal mixture. Stir for a minute before pouring in water or broth. Cook on low heat until the mixture turns soft and develops a porridge-like consistency.
- Final touch: Add salt and coconut milk (if using), then let it simmer on low heat for 2 minutes.
- Serve hot: Your Ramadan Special Ganji is ready. Garnish with coriander leaves and enjoy warm.
This simple yet flavorful dish not only satisfies hunger but also fosters a sense of togetherness, reflecting the spirit of community and benevolence during the holy month of Ramadan. Whether served plain or paired with pickles or fried snacks, Ramadan Special Ganji is a soulful dish that nourishes both the body and the heart.
Ramadan Special Ganji is a light yet nutrient-rich dish enjoyed at Iftar. Made with rice, lentils, and spices, this comforting porridge replenishes energy after fasting. Food & Drink Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
