Sabudana Khichdi
A staple across India during fasting periods, Sabudana Khichdi is as comforting as it is energising. Made from soaked tapioca pearls, this dish is light on the stomach yet provides a great boost of carbohydrates to keep you going. The pearls are tossed
with boiled potatoes, crunchy roasted peanuts, and a simple tempering of cumin seeds and green chillies. A final squeeze of lemon juice and a garnish of fresh coriander brighten up the flavours, making it a perfectly balanced meal. It’s a classic for a reason and a must-try during Sawan Mondays.
Kuttu ki Puri
When regular grains like wheat are avoided, special flours come to the rescue. Kuttu ka atta, or buckwheat flour, is a popular choice for making puris during Sawan. This gluten-free flour has a distinct nutty flavour that is both rustic and delicious. The dough is often prepared by mixing the flour with mashed boiled potatoes, rock salt (sendha namak), and cumin powder, which helps in binding and adds flavour. Fried until crisp and puffed, these dark-hued puris are typically served with a simple potato curry (vrat wale aloo), creating a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Makhana Kheer
No festive meal is complete without dessert, and Makhana Kheer is a perfect fit for Sawan. Makhana, or fox nuts, are light, nutritious, and rich in calcium. To make this creamy pudding, the makhana are lightly roasted in ghee until crunchy, then simmered in milk until they soften. The milk reduces and thickens, creating a luscious consistency. Sweetened with sugar and flavoured with cardamom and saffron, this kheer is a delightful and comforting dessert. Garnished with slivered almonds and pistachios, it’s a guilt-free indulgence for fasting days.
Samak Rice Pulao
For those who miss rice during fasting, Samak rice, also known as barnyard millet, is an excellent substitute. This vrat-friendly grain can be cooked just like regular rice and is often used to make a simple but flavourful pulao or khichdi. The millet is cooked with ghee, cumin seeds, and allowed vegetables like potatoes. It has a light texture and cooks quickly, making it a convenient option for an evening meal after a day of fasting. It's gentle on the stomach and provides steady energy.
Singhare ka Halwa
Another delightful sweet treat made from a fasting-specific flour is Singhare ka Halwa. Made from singhara atta (water chestnut flour), this halwa is rich, dense, and deeply satisfying. The flour is roasted in a generous amount of ghee until it turns aromatic and golden-brown, then cooked with sugar and water or milk until it thickens into a glossy, smooth pudding. It provides warmth and sustained energy, making it an ideal dish for longer fasting days. Its unique taste and comforting texture make it a Sawan special.
Vrat Wale Aloo
The humble potato becomes a star ingredient during Sawan fasting. Vrat Wale Aloo is a simple yet versatile dish that pairs beautifully with puris or can be enjoyed on its own. Unlike regular potato curries, this version is prepared without onion, garlic, or turmeric. Boiled potatoes are cubed and lightly sautéed in ghee with a tempering of cumin seeds, green chillies, and sometimes ginger. Seasoned with rock salt, it's a quick, easy, and satisfying dish that embodies the simplicity of satvik cooking.
Fruit Chaat
Fresh fruits are a cornerstone of the Sawan diet, providing essential vitamins, hydration, and natural sugars. A simple fruit chaat is a refreshing and easy way to enjoy them. A mix of seasonal fruits like bananas, apples, papaya, and pomegranate is chopped and tossed together. A sprinkle of rock salt and roasted cumin powder adds a savoury balance to the sweetness of the fruits. This light and colourful dish is perfect for a mid-day snack or to break a fast gently before a more substantial meal.
