Easy Kitchari (Instant Pot Friendly!)

• 1 Tbsp coconut or avocado oil (or sub coconut milk for oil-free)
• 2 tsp whole cumin seeds (or sub half as much ground cumin)
• 1 tsp whole mustard seeds (or sub half as much mustard powder)
• 2 ½ Tbsp finely chopped fresh ginger
• 1 medium carrot, halved lengthwise, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Basmati white rice
• 3/4 cup split yellow moong dal (or sub red lentils, but kitchari is typically made with mung beans)
• 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground turmeric (plus more to taste)
• 3/4 tsp sea salt (plus more to taste)
• 3 ½ cups water
• 1/2 cup light coconut milk (optional // for creaminess, richness // sub more water if omitting)
• 1-2 Tbsp Coconut aminos  (optional // for depth of flavor)

FOR SERVING optional

• cilantro
• lemon or lime juice
• Steamed kale (or other steamed or roasted vegetables)
• roasted sweet potatoes
• Naan (or gluten-free)
• green curry paste