Sweet Potato Power
Sweet potato, or shakarkandi, holds a special place in many people's diets during Navratri. It's a versatile food, easy to prepare, and packed with nutrients
that make it a great choice for fasting. They are a fantastic source of energy, fiber, and vitamins. They are considered sattvic food, which means it promotes purity and mental well-being, which is essential during the Navratri. It is filling, keeps you satiated for long and is also relatively easy to find. They can be used to make everything from snacks to full meals, providing variety while you observe your fast.
Sabudana Fusion
Sabudana, or tapioca pearls, is another popular food during Navratri. Sabudana khichdi is a classic, but combining it with sweet potato offers a fresh twist. You can create a sweet potato and sabudana mixture to provide more depth of flavors. This combination provides a balanced combination of carbs, and fibre, which keeps you full for a long time. To do this, you could boil sweet potatoes then cut them in small pieces to incorporate with the khichdi. You can use spices for taste. This mix can become a fulfilling meal during fasting, offering both energy and nutrition.
Sweet Potato Halwa
Traditional halwa is a favourite Indian dessert, and sweet potato lends itself perfectly to this preparation. You can make a vrat-friendly halwa using grated sweet potato, ghee, sugar, and nuts. Ghee, being an essential ingredient, is known for its nutritional benefits and ability to bind flavors. Nuts like almonds and cashews enhance the taste and nutritional value. This recipe provides a sweet and comforting dessert, perfect for breaking your fast or as a treat during Navratri. Experiment with spices like cardamom and saffron for added aroma and flavour.
Sweet Potato Chaat
Chaat, known for its blend of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors, can be easily adapted for fasting. You can prepare a sweet potato chaat by shallow frying or roasting the sweet potato cubes until they are golden and crispy. Season them with rock salt (sendha namak), a squeeze of lemon juice, and green coriander. For a more wholesome experience, add finely chopped cucumber and tomatoes if permitted. The result is a flavorful snack that is light, tasty, and satisfies your cravings without breaking your fasting rules.
Sweet Potato Kheer
Kheer, a creamy Indian dessert, can also feature sweet potato. You can cook grated sweet potato with milk (dairy or plant-based), sugar, and cardamom. This provides a satisfying texture, especially during fasting. Add soaked and crushed almonds or pistachios for added flavour. This dessert is nutritious and delightful, perfect for festive occasions or a simple way to end a fasting day. It's easy to prepare and offers a delightful sweetness from the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and the rich flavour of kheer.
