Spring is here and it’s time to dust off those winter cobwebs and embrace the fresh beginnings that this new season brings. Fling open the windows and feel the sun's warm rays caress your skin. Enjoy the gentle warm breezes that carry the delicate scents of blossoming flowers and freshly cut grass, as you shed the heavy layers of winter and step into all of the lightness and brightness that spring has to offer.

I’m sure you’ll agree that there is a renewed sense of energy and optimism when spring rolls around. It’s a wonderful season to clear out the clutter, both physically and mentally, and create space for new ideas and inspiration to blossom. Springtime is the perfect time to embark on new adventures and embrace the joys of outdoor activities too. Why not pull that old bicycle out from the shed, or lace up your hiking boots, and embark on an adventure, discovering hidden wildflower lined trails, whilst immersing yourself in the natural beauty all around you?

But there’s another element to spring that’s not only about the external transformation; it's also an invitation for your insides to have a fresh new beginning in the shape of an internal cleanse, to give you that nudge to feel rejuvenated and renewed and offer you back all that energy and vitality you may have been missing during the hibernation period of winter.

Today, I'm here to introduce you to a recipe that is not only nourishing but perfect for a springtime cleanse. Allow me to introduce you to my Supercharged Kitchari.

Kitchari is a fantastic dish that is both soothing and easy to digest. It's like a warm hug for your tummy. The best part? It's super easy to prepare, and you can make a big batch to have on hand for quick and satisfying meals. Convenience at its finest, so you can spend more time enjoying nature and the joys of springtime.

So why is a Kitchari cleanse good for you?

Firstly for nourishment and digestive ease. Kitchari is a gentle and nourishing dish that combines rice and mung beans. It’s easy to digest, making it a perfect option for a digestive system break. During the cleanse, kitchari provides essential nutrients, such as protein, fibre, and vitamins, whilst being very gentle on your stomach. It helps reset your digestion and promotes efficient nutrient absorption.

Secondly, it’s beneficial for detoxification and cleansing. Kitchari is thought to support the body's natural detoxification processes. The combination of rice and mung beans is believed to have a detoxifying effect, helping to flush out the junk from your trunk. The spices like ginger, turmeric, and cumin used in kitchari also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, further supporting the cleansing process.

This meal is also balanced and satisfying. Kitchari is a well-balanced dish that provides a combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. This balance helps keep your blood sugar levels stable and prevents energy crashes.

I love that kitchari's warm and comforting nature can help satisfy cravings and keep you feeling nourished throughout the cleanse too. One thing I should add is to ensure you are drinking enough water if you are doing a kitchari cleanse.

If you’re wondering how long to do it for, the duration of a kitchari cleanse can vary depending on individual preferences and goals. Generally, it can be done for a period of three to seven days. This time-frame allows your body to experience the benefits of the cleanse without putting excessive strain on your system.

A three-day cleanse is a good starting point for beginners or those who prefer a shorter reset. It provides a gentle detoxification and digestive rest while allowing you to experience the benefits of kitchari. I also love to add one teaspoon of my Love Your Gut powder or Love Your Gut capsules at the same time and finish the day with a teaspoon of Love Your Gut Synbiotic to further cleanse the gut and then repopulate it with lots of probiotics, helping your body further with digestion and adding important prebiotic fibre, digestive enzymes and dietary fibre. To supercharge your energy levels, add a few drops of Fulvic Humic Concentrate too. You can read more about my Love Your Gut products here.

For those looking for a deeper cleanse or more significant transformation, a seven-day cleanse may be suitable. This longer duration allows for a more thorough detoxification process and a chance to observe potential changes in energy levels, digestion, and overall well-being.

Ultimately, the duration of your kitchari cleanse should be based on your personal goals, health condition, and comfort level. It's essential to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed. If you have any concerns or specific health conditions, it's always advisable to consult with your healthcare professional before starting any cleanse or dietary changes too.

The addition of vegetables during the cleanse adds essential vitamins and minerals, promoting overall health. To supercharge my recipe, I simply warm 1 cup of the cooked mixture with 125 ml (4 fl oz/1/2 cup) water and add chopped vegetables to it, as it takes this kitchari to the next level and gives it a supercharge and a burst of flavour and nutrients with every spoonful. Who said cleansing had to be boring? Not me!

Supercharged Kitchari

Here's what you'll need:

Serves 4

• 200 g (7 oz/1 cup) brown basmati or brown rice, soaked for a minimum of one hour in water and 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, then drained
• 225 g (8 oz/1 cup) mung beans (moong dal), soaked for a minimum of one hour in  water and 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, then drained
• 2.5 cm (1 inch) piece of ginger, grated
• 2.5 cm (1 inch) piece of turmeric, grated or 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• pinch of asafoetida (optional)
• 1 tablespoon ghee
• 1 litre (35 fl oz/4 cups) filtered water
• Celtic sea salt, to taste

Method

In a large saucepan, combine all the ingredients. Bring it to a simmer, and let it cook until the grains and beans are tender, creating a symphony of flavours and aromas.

Once your kitchari is ready, you can store it in the fridge for easy access. Simply warm up a cup of the cooked mixture with some water, add your favourite veggies, and voila! A nourishing meal is just moments away.

It's time to nourish your body and embrace the freshness of the season. Happy cooking and happy cleansing!

Lee Holmes - Naturopath and founder of Supercharged Food.