1. Sabudana Khichdi
A quintessential fasting dish, Sabudana Khichdi is light, flavourful, and incredibly satisfying. Made from tapioca pearls, this gluten-free dish provides a quick source of energy. The key to a perfect, non-sticky khichdi lies in soaking the sabudana properly—just
until it can be mashed easily between your fingers. Once soaked and drained, it’s quickly tossed in a pan with ghee, cumin seeds, boiled potatoes, roasted peanuts, and green chillies. A final squeeze of lemon juice not only adds a fresh tang but also helps separate the pearls, ensuring a fluffy texture every time. It’s a warm and comforting start to any Shravan morning.
2. Kuttu ka Cheela (Buckwheat Pancake)
For those who prefer a savoury start, Kuttu ka Cheela is an excellent choice. Kuttu, or buckwheat flour, is a Shravan staple, and these thin pancakes are both easy to make and nutritious. A simple batter is made by mixing kuttu flour with water, rock salt (sendha namak), and finely chopped green chillies. Some recipes also incorporate grated bottle gourd or yogurt for a softer texture. Pour a ladleful onto a hot, greased pan and cook until crisp on both sides. For a more filling breakfast, you can add a simple stuffing of grated paneer (cottage cheese) seasoned with shredded ginger before folding the cheela. Serve hot with a simple vrat-friendly chutney for a delicious meal.
3. Sama ke Chawal Pulao (Barnyard Millet Pilaf)
Sama ke chawal, or barnyard millet, is a wonderful grain substitute during fasting periods. This simple pulao feels like a treat but is light on the stomach and cooks in under 30 minutes. The millet is first rinsed and sometimes soaked briefly. A tempering of ghee, cumin seeds, cloves, and peppercorns creates an aromatic base. Sautéed potatoes and roasted peanuts add texture and substance. Finally, the millet is added along with water and cooked until fluffy. It’s a wholesome one-pot meal that provides steady energy without feeling heavy.
4. Makhana Kheer (Fox Nut Pudding)
If you have a sweet tooth in the morning, Makhana Kheer is a healthy and delightful option. Makhana (fox nuts) are low in calories but rich in nutrients. To make this kheer, makhana are first lightly roasted in ghee until they become crunchy. Some of them can be coarsely ground to help thicken the kheer naturally. The roasted makhana are then simmered in milk, which is sweetened with sugar and flavoured with cardamom and saffron. The nuts soften as they cook, creating a creamy pudding with a unique texture. It’s a comforting dish that can be enjoyed warm or chilled.
5. Vrat Wale Dahi Aloo
This is a tangy and flavourful potato curry that comes together in minutes. Boiled potatoes are cubed and lightly pan-fried in ghee with cumin seeds until they are slightly crisp. A separate mixture of yogurt (dahi), a pinch of buckwheat or amaranth flour (to prevent curdling), rock salt, and green chillies is prepared. This yogurt mixture is then added to the potatoes and simmered gently for a few minutes until the gravy thickens. The result is a creamy, comforting curry that is satisfying without being overpowering, making it a wonderful accompaniment or a standalone breakfast.
6. Singhare ka Halwa (Water Chestnut Flour Halwa)
Singhare ka halwa is a traditional fasting sweet that provides instant energy, making it ideal for mornings when you need a boost. Made from water chestnut flour (singhare ka atta), this rich, dense pudding is surprisingly simple to prepare. The flour is roasted in ghee until it turns aromatic and darkens in colour. A syrup of sugar and water is then poured in, and the mixture is stirred continuously to avoid lumps until it thickens and starts leaving the sides of the pan. Flavoured with cardamom powder and garnished with chopped nuts, this halwa is a warm, indulgent, and fulfilling way to begin a fasting day.
7. Spiced Fruit Chaat
When you’re short on time, a falahari fruit chaat is the easiest and most refreshing breakfast. There is no cooking involved, just chopping and mixing. Combine your favourite seasonal fruits that are permissible during fasts, such as apples, bananas, pomegranates, and pineapple. To elevate it from a simple fruit salad to a zesty chaat, add a sprinkle of sendha namak, roasted cumin powder, and a dash of black pepper. A squeeze of lemon juice brings all the flavours together. This vibrant bowl is packed with vitamins and natural sugars, providing a light yet energising start to your day.
