Khichiri, a forebear of the Egyptian koshary and the British kedgeree, is a South Asian preparation of rice and lentils with many variations. Turmeric probably takes credit for the hue of this bhuna khichuri (with beef curry, $7.50 total), which traditionally is colored and seasoned with a paste of dry-fried spices, though roasted yellow mung beans are also a common ingredient. For this khichuri, the Bangladeshi chef has set an intact chili pepper on top to signal that more are hidden below.
Aladdin Sweets & Restaurant
29-06 36th Ave. (29th-30th Sts.), Astoria, Queens
718-784-2554
