Sabudana Khichdi
A classic fasting dish, especially in Maharashtra and Gujarat, Sabudana Khichdi is the ultimate comfort breakfast. These soft, pearly tapioca pearls are cooked with boiled potatoes, roasted peanuts, and a simple tempering of cumin seeds and green chillies.
It is light on the stomach, naturally gluten-free, and provides a good source of carbohydrates for sustained energy through the morning. A squeeze of lemon juice and a garnish of fresh coriander are all it takes to finish this beloved dish.
Rajgira Paratha
Rajgira, or amaranth flour, is a powerhouse of nutrients and a staple during fasting periods. These parathas have a distinct nutty and earthy flavour. The flour is typically kneaded with mashed boiled potatoes and seasoned with rock salt and black pepper to create a soft, pliable dough. Cooked on a tawa with a bit of ghee until golden-brown, these parathas are wonderfully soft. They pair perfectly with a side of plain yoghurt or a simple potato sabzi made without onion or garlic.
Kuttu ka Cheela
Kuttu, or buckwheat flour, is another versatile fasting ingredient. A cheela, or savoury pancake, made from kuttu atta is both delicious and nutritious. The batter is made by mixing buckwheat flour with water, rock salt, and spices like ginger and green chillies. Some variations include adding grated bottle gourd (lauki) to the batter for extra softness and nutrition. Cooked on a hot pan until crisp, these cheelas are a quick, healthy, and filling breakfast option.
Sama Ki Idli
For those who crave a South Indian breakfast, Sama ki Idli is the perfect solution. Made from sama rice, also known as barnyard millet, these idlis are light, fluffy, and easy to digest. The millet is soaked, ground, and often fermented to create a batter that steams into perfect little cakes. They offer a wholesome start to the day and are excellent when served with a simple coconut chutney that omits onion and garlic.
Fruit Chaat with Sendha Namak
Sometimes, the simplest breakfast is the most refreshing. A colourful bowl of seasonal fruits is an excellent choice for a light and hydrating start to your fasting day. Dice a variety of fruits like bananas, apples, papaya, and pomegranate seeds. Toss them together with a pinch of sendha namak (rock salt) and a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty flavour. This not only provides instant energy but also keeps you hydrated.
Makhana Cutlets
Makhana, or fox nuts, are light yet incredibly nutritious. For a savoury and crispy breakfast, makhana cutlets are a fantastic choice. Toasted and ground makhana is mixed with boiled potatoes, chopped green chillies, roasted peanuts, and cumin seeds. This mixture is then shaped into patties and shallow-fried in ghee until golden and crisp on the outside. They are delightful on their own or with a side of vrat-friendly green chutney.
Rajgira Kheer
For those who prefer a sweet start to their day, Rajgira Kheer is a wonderful option. Amaranth grains are cooked in milk until they soften, creating a creamy porridge-like consistency. Sweetened with jaggery or sugar and often flavoured with cardamom, it's a wholesome and energising dish. Garnished with chopped nuts like almonds and pistachios, this kheer serves as a comforting breakfast that feels like a treat.
