kedgeree

Kedgeree (pronounced "kej-uh-ree") is a flavourful dish with a fascinating history. It grew out of khichdi, an Indian dish made with rice and lentils, and later became popular in Britain during the time of the Raj. The British version changed the recipe by replacing the lentils with flaked fish, often smoked haddock or cod, and adding hard-boiled eggs, butter, and spices like turmeric and curry powder.

Traditionally eaten for breakfast, kedgeree is now enjoyed at any time of day. It's a good way to use leftover cooked fish and brings together Indian spice and British comfort food. Think of soft rice, flaky fish, bright yellow colour from the turmeric, and pieces of egg mixed through it: it's a deeply satisfying meal.

Kedgeree is a dish steeped in colonial history and culinary fusion. Its roots lie in khichdi, a simple yet nourishing staple of Indian cuisine consisting of rice and lentils. When the British East India Company flourished, khichdi travelled back to Britain with returning officials and soldiers. Over time, this humble dish underwent a transformation, adapting to British tastes and available ingredients.

The key change was the substitution of lentils with flaked fish, with smoked haddock being especially popular, and the addition of hard-boiled eggs. Butter, sometimes cream, curry powder, and turmeric were also incorporated, creating a vibrant yellow dish that became a favourite breakfast among the British upper classes in Victorian times.

Today, kedgeree remains a beloved dish, though it's no longer strictly confined to breakfast tables. It is often served for brunch or even a light lunch. While traditional recipes stick closely to the core ingredients, modern variations might include prawns, almonds, or other seafood.

The name itself is derived from the Hindi word khichri, reflecting its Indian origins. Kedgeree is a clear example of how food can travel across cultures and evolve into something new and delicious, a testament to culinary exchange and adaptation. So the next time you see kedgeree on a menu, remember that it's more than just a rice dish; it's a story told through flavour.