Sabudana Khichdi
A timeless classic in the world of fasting foods, Sabudana Khichdi is both light and incredibly filling. Made from soaked tapioca pearls, this dish provides a quick source of energy to start your day. The preparation is simple: the fluffy pearls are tossed
with boiled potato cubes, roasted peanuts, and a simple tempering of cumin seeds and green chillies in ghee. A final squeeze of lemon juice adds a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness. Its delightful texture—a combination of soft pearls and crunchy peanuts—makes it a breakfast favourite across India during Sawan and other fasts.
Kuttu ke Atte ka Cheela
For those who prefer a savoury pancake-style breakfast, the Kuttu ke Atte ka Cheela is an excellent choice. Made from buckwheat flour (kuttu ka atta), these crepes are naturally gluten-free and a powerhouse of nutrients. The batter is typically made by mixing the flour with water or yogurt, grated vegetables like bottle gourd (lauki) or potato, and seasoned with rock salt (sendha namak), chopped green chillies, and ginger. Cooked on a hot tawa with a little ghee until golden and slightly crisp, these cheelas are quick to make and can be served with a side of plain curd or a simple vrat-friendly chutney.
Vrat Wale Aloo Tikki
If you crave something crispy and satisfying, look no further than Vrat Wale Aloo Tikki. These savoury potato patties are a delightful breakfast or snack option. The preparation involves mixing boiled and mashed potatoes with vrat-friendly flours like water chestnut flour (singhare ka atta) or amaranth flour (rajgira ka atta) for binding. The mixture is seasoned with sendha namak, crushed black pepper, and fresh coriander before being shaped into patties and shallow-fried in ghee until golden brown and crisp on the outside. These tikkis are wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed on their own or with a dollop of yogurt.
Makhana Kheer
When you're in the mood for a sweet and comforting start to your day, Makhana Kheer is the perfect answer. Makhana, or fox nuts, are light, packed with nutrients like calcium, and considered an ideal food for fasting. This simple kheer is made by roasting the makhana in a little ghee until they are crisp, and then simmering them in milk until it thickens. The dish is sweetened with sugar or jaggery and flavoured with aromatic green cardamom powder and a scattering of chopped nuts like almonds and pistachios. It’s a wholesome and delicious option that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
Singhare ki Puri with Aloo Sabzi
For a more substantial and traditional breakfast, Singhare ki Puri served with a simple Aloo Sabzi is a classic combination. The puris are made from singhare ka atta (water chestnut flour), which is mixed with boiled, mashed potatoes and seasoned with rock salt to form a firm dough. These small discs are then deep-fried until they puff up into crisp, golden-brown bread. They are typically paired with a simple and flavourful potato curry made without onion or garlic, using tomatoes, green chillies, and cumin, all cooked in ghee. This hearty meal is perfect for days when you need sustained energy.
