The Classic Energiser: Sabudana Khichdi
A quintessential fasting dish, Sabudana Khichdi is a beloved breakfast across many Indian households for good reason. Made from soaked tapioca pearls, this dish offers a delightful chewy texture and is a fantastic source of carbohydrates for sustained
energy throughout the day. The magic of a good Sabudana Khichdi lies in its non-sticky, fluffy texture, where each pearl is separate. It is typically prepared by tempering cumin seeds in ghee, followed by sautéed potatoes and green chillies. The soaked sabudana is then added along with roasted and crushed peanuts, which provide a wonderful crunch and a boost of protein. A final squeeze of lemon juice and a garnish of fresh coriander leaves brighten up the flavours, making it a perfectly balanced and filling start to a day of devotion.
A Hearty Combination: Kuttu ki Puri with Aloo Sabzi
When you think of a truly festive and hearty vrat meal, the combination of Kuttu ki Puri and Aloo Sabzi often comes to mind. Kuttu ka atta, or buckwheat flour, is a gluten-free staple during fasting periods like Navratri. These pooris, often a darker colour than their wheat counterparts, are delightfully crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The dough is traditionally made by combining buckwheat flour with boiled and mashed potatoes, which act as a binding agent, though some recipes use hot water instead for a lighter version. These puris are best served hot, paired with a simple yet flavourful Vrat Wale Aloo ki Sabzi. This curry is prepared without onions or garlic, using tomatoes, green chillies, and spices like cumin, with sendha namak (rock salt) for seasoning. This combination is not just delicious but also incredibly satisfying.
The Quick Savoury Pancake: Singhare ka Cheela
For those seeking a lighter, quicker, and healthier option, Singhare ka Cheela is an excellent choice. Made from singhare ka atta (water chestnut flour), this savoury pancake is naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients. The batter is simple to prepare, combining the flour with water, sendha namak, chopped green chillies, and fresh coriander leaves to create a smooth, pourable consistency. To make it more substantial, grated potatoes or other vrat-friendly vegetables can be added to the batter. Cooked on a non-stick tawa with a little ghee until golden and crisp, the cheela has a soft centre and a mild, pleasant taste. It is wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed on its own, or served with a side of plain curd or a fresh mint and coriander vrat chutney. It’s a great way to have a nutritious meal without feeling too heavy.
The Comforting Rice Alternative: Samak Pulao
Craving rice during a fast? Samak ke chawal, also known as barnyard millet, is the perfect substitute. This tiny grain cooks up light and fluffy, closely mimicking the texture of rice or broken wheat, making it ideal for preparing a comforting pulao. Also called Vrat ke Chawal ka Pulao, this one-pot meal is both easy to make and flavourful. The preparation usually involves sautéing cumin seeds, green chillies, and sometimes whole spices like cloves and peppercorns in ghee. Diced potatoes and peanuts are often added for texture and substance. The washed and drained samak rice is then added with water and cooked until all the liquid is absorbed and the grains are tender. Garnished with chopped coriander, this pulao is light on the stomach yet provides ample energy, making it an ideal morning meal during a fast.
Sweet & Simple: Makhana Kheer
If you prefer to start your fasting day on a sweet note, Makhana Kheer is a wonderful option. Makhana, or fox nuts, are light, airy, and a powerhouse of nutrients, making them a popular fasting ingredient. This kheer is a creamy, delightful pudding that is both indulgent and healthy. The process is simple: makhana are lightly roasted in ghee until they become crisp, which prevents them from getting soggy in the milk. A portion of the roasted makhana can be coarsely ground to help thicken the kheer. They are then simmered in milk until it thickens, and sweetened with sugar or jaggery. The kheer is often flavoured with cardamom powder and garnished with slivered nuts like almonds and pistachios. It can be enjoyed warm or chilled, offering a comforting and nourishing start to the day.
