Sabudana Khichdi: The Ultimate Comfort
There is perhaps no dish more synonymous with fasting in India than Sabudana Khichdi. Made from soaked tapioca pearls, this dish is a staple during Shravan because it is light, gluten-free, and adheres to 'vrat' or fasting norms. It is typically prepared
without onions or garlic, using rock salt (sendha namak) instead of regular table salt. The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity: tender sabudana pearls are sautéed in ghee with cumin seeds, green chillies, boiled potatoes, and a generous crunch from roasted peanuts. Served warm, its soft, comforting texture is the perfect antidote to a grey, drizzly monsoon morning, providing sustained energy without feeling heavy.
Rajgira Cheela: The Savoury Pancake
For those who prefer a savoury start to their day, the Rajgira (amaranth) cheela is an excellent choice. Rajgira is a pseudo-cereal, not a true grain, making it a permitted food during many fasts. The flour is naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients. To make the cheela, rajgira flour is mixed with water, rock salt, chopped green chillies, and fresh coriander to form a pourable batter. Some variations include grated potato or other vrat-friendly vegetables. Poured onto a hot pan and cooked with a little ghee until golden and slightly crisp, these pancakes are both quick to make and wonderfully warming—just what's needed on a cool, damp day.
Kuttu Ki Puri with Aloo: A Hearty Treat
When the rain is relentless and you crave something more substantial, Kuttu ki Puri (buckwheat flour bread) served with a simple potato curry fits the bill. Buckwheat, or kuttu, is another popular fasting flour. The dough is typically made by mixing the flour with mashed boiled potatoes, which act as a binding agent, along with rock salt and perhaps some cumin. These small discs are then deep-fried in ghee or oil until they puff up into satisfyingly fluffy puris. Paired with a simple, comforting potato sabzi made without onions and garlic, this meal feels indulgent yet remains true to Shravan's dietary guidelines. It is a classic combination that provides warmth and satiety on a cool morning.
Makhana Kheer: Sweet & Nourishing
If you have a sweet tooth, a warm bowl of Makhana (fox nut) Kheer is a delightful way to begin a Shravan morning. Makhana is light, crunchy, and a popular fasting ingredient. To make this kheer, fox nuts are lightly roasted in ghee until crisp, then simmered in milk until the mixture thickens and the makhana softens. Sweetened with sugar or jaggery and flavoured with cardamom powder and a scattering of nuts like almonds and pistachios, this dish is both a dessert and a breakfast. It is nutritious, easy to digest, and its creamy warmth offers a comforting embrace against the monsoon chill.
Fruit Chaat with a Twist
For the simplest and quickest morning meal, nothing beats a bowl of fresh fruit. Fruits are a cornerstone of any fasting diet. During the monsoon, it's best to choose seasonal options. To make it more interesting and suitable for Shravan, create a chaat. Dice fruits like bananas, apples, and pears, and toss them with a pinch of rock salt and a sprinkle of black pepper powder. For extra texture and protein, you can add roasted peanuts or walnuts. This simple preparation is hydrating, full of vitamins, and requires no cooking, making it perfect for a busy morning while still providing a refreshing and energising start.
