When I was young, my nani (maternal grandmother) would prepare a light yet delicious meal whenever I had an upset stomach or wanted something warm and comforting. It was our family’s go-to dish for a gentle, soothing lunch, especially on days when we needed a break from rich, heavy Indian meals.

 

This dish, called Jaula, is a traditional one-pot meal from Uttarakhand. While it shares similarities with khichdi, it has its own unique charm and is deeply rooted in the region’s culinary heritage. Made with just a few simple ingredients—buttermilk, rice, turmeric, and salt—cooked in an iron container, it is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutritional benefits.

 

In this post, I’ll take you through the quick, budget-friendly recipe for Jaula, along with its health benefits and why it’s a meal worth adding to your diet. Whether you’re looking for a light yet filling dish, something easy on digestion, or a meal that brings warmth and nostalgia, Jaula is a perfect choice!

 

Ingredients:

• Buttermilk – 2 cups 
• Rice – 1 cup 
• Turmeric – ½ tsp 
• Salt – as per taste 
• Green Chillies – 2-3 small-sized (optional)
• Water – as needed (to adjust consistency)
• Cow’s Ghee & Onions – for extra flavour 
• Iron Container – for enhanced taste and natural iron enrichment.

How to Make Jaula – Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1:

      Heat an iron container and add washed rice with water.

 

Step 2:

      Cook on low heat until the rice becomes soft and slightly mushy.

 

Step 3:

     Add buttermilk, turmeric, salt, and green chillies. Mix well.

 

Step 4:

      Let it cook on low heat until the consistency is not too solid nor too liquid—it should have a smooth, porridge-like texture.

 

Step 5:

      Serve warm with a drizzle of cow’s ghee on top, garnished with chopped onions and a side of pickle for an added burst of                  flavour.

 

 

Why You’ll Love This Dish:

• Light yet nourishing – Perfect for when you want a simple, wholesome meal.

• Great for digestion – The probiotics in buttermilk and the soft texture make it gut-friendly.

• Naturally nutritious – Cooking in an iron container boosts iron levels in the dish

• Easy to make – Requires minimal ingredients and effort.

• Comforting & flavorful – The mix of mild spices and creamy texture makes it a true comfort food.

 

I hope you try this Uttarakhandi recipe and experience its simple yet delicious flavours. Let me know in the comments if you make it—I’d love to hear your thoughts! 😊