Kuttu Ka Cheela (Buckwheat Crepes)
A fantastic alternative to fried puris, the Kuttu Ka Cheela is a savoury pancake that is both light and filling. Kuttu, or buckwheat flour, is a powerhouse of nutrients and is naturally gluten-free. The batter is simple to make, usually consisting of kuttu
flour, rock salt (sendha namak), and spices like black pepper and green chillies. You can enhance the batter by adding grated vegetables that are permissible during fasts, such as boiled and mashed potatoes or bottle gourd (lauki), which keeps the cheelas soft on the inside while they get crispy at the edges. Cooked with minimal ghee, they are a wholesome and quick option for a satisfying morning meal. Serve them hot with a side of plain curd or a simple vrat-friendly mint chutney.
Rajgira Paratha (Amaranth Flatbread)
Rajgira, or amaranth flour, is another vrat-friendly staple that is packed with protein and essential minerals. Rajgira Parathas are soft, wholesome flatbreads that provide sustained energy. The dough is typically made by combining rajgira flour with boiled, mashed potatoes, which act as a binding agent and ensure the parathas are soft and easy to roll. Seasoned with sendha namak, cumin powder, and finely chopped coriander leaves, these parathas are flavourful on their own. They can be cooked on a tawa with a little ghee until golden-brown spots appear. These parathas are perfect to have with a simple potato curry (vrat wale aloo) or a bowl of creamy yogurt, making for a truly complete and comforting breakfast.
Sweet Potato Chaat
For those who crave something tangy and flavourful in the morning, a Sweet Potato Chaat is an excellent choice. Sweet potatoes, or shakarkandi, are naturally sweet, full of fibre, and a permitted food during most fasts. To prepare this, simply boil or roast the sweet potatoes until tender, peel and cut them into cubes. Toss the cubes with sendha namak, roasted cumin powder, black pepper, and a generous squeeze of lemon juice. For extra crunch and flavour, you can add roasted peanuts and fresh pomegranate seeds. This chaat is not only quick to assemble but also offers a wonderful balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavours to kickstart your day.
Makhana Kheer or Porridge
If you prefer a sweet start to your day, Makhana (fox nuts) Kheer is a light yet indulgent option. Makhana is low in calories, rich in protein, and considered a superfood. To make the kheer, roast the makhana in a little ghee until they are crisp, then simmer them in milk until they soften. Sweeten with sugar or jaggery, and flavour it with cardamom powder and a few strands of saffron. You can add chopped nuts like almonds and pistachios for extra richness. For a quicker porridge-like consistency, you can crush the roasted makhana before adding them to the milk. Served warm or chilled, it’s a comforting dish that keeps you full without feeling heavy.
Vrat-Friendly Smoothies
When you're short on time, a smoothie is the perfect no-cook breakfast. You can blend a variety of fruits and other vrat-friendly ingredients for an instant energy boost. A popular combination is a Banana and Walnut Lassi, made with yogurt, ripe bananas, walnuts, and a touch of honey for sweetness. Another great option is a fruit smoothie with ingredients like apple, papaya, or mango blended with milk or yogurt. To make it more filling, you can add a handful of soaked almonds or a few dates. These smoothies are hydrating, nutritious, and a refreshing way to begin a day of fasting.
Farali Aloo Tikki (Fasting Potato Patties)
While often enjoyed as a snack, Aloo Tikki can easily be adapted for a hearty breakfast. These patties are made by mixing boiled and mashed potatoes with vrat-friendly flours like singhara (water chestnut) or kuttu for binding. The mixture is seasoned with sendha namak, chopped green chillies, ginger, and fresh coriander. Shape them into patties and shallow-fry them in ghee until they are golden and crisp on the outside and soft inside. These tikkis can be served with a dollop of sweetened curd and a sprinkle of roasted cumin powder, making for a delicious and satisfying breakfast that feels like a treat.
