Dishes for Navratri Fast: Navratri is a festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil, but for many, it is also a time for spiritual reflection and fasting. The fasting observed during Navratri is not just about refraining from certain foods, but also about cleansing the body and soul. It’s a period to purify ourselves by consuming sattvic (pure) foods that nourish both the body and mind. While grains and regular salt are off-limits, there is still an array of delicious dishes to savor. Let’s dive into some popular and creative Navratri fasting dishes that will keep you energized during these auspicious nine days.
Rules of Navratri Fasting
Before we explore the dishes, it’s important to understand the key guidelines for fasting during Navratri. Fasting isn’t just about skipping meals; it involves eating specific foods that are considered pure. Here are the basic rules:
- Allowed Ingredients: Buckwheat flour (kuttu), water chestnut flour (singhara), barnyard millet (sama ke chawal), potatoes, sweet potatoes, and fruits. Dairy products like milk, paneer, and yogurt are allowed, as is rock salt (sendha namak).
- Avoided Ingredients: Grains (like rice, and wheat), legumes, onion, garlic, regular salt, and processed foods. These foods are believed to increase the body’s heat and disrupt the fasting ritual’s spiritual purity.
Now that we’ve got the rules clear, let’s explore some mouth-watering dishes you can enjoy during Navratri fasting.
Popular Dishes for Navratri Fast
1. Sabudana Khichdi
A favorite during fasting, Sabudana Khichdi is light yet filling. Made from soaked tapioca pearls, it is sautéed with peanuts, cumin, green chilies, and potatoes. It’s deliciously soft and is often garnished with fresh coriander and a squeeze of lemon for added zest. This dish is rich in carbohydrates and provides the energy needed to sustain your fast.
2. Kuttu Ki Puri
Buckwheat flour, or Kuttu ka Atta, is an essential grain substitute during Navratri. These puris are made by kneading the flour with boiled potatoes and rock salt. They are typically served with a tangy aloo (potato) curry. The puris are deep-fried, making them crispy and perfect for satisfying those cravings during fasting.
3. Aloo Tamatar Curry
This simple yet flavorful curry is a Navratri staple. Made with boiled potatoes simmered in a tomato-based gravy, Aloo Tamatar Curry is spiced with cumin, rock salt, and green chilies. It pairs wonderfully with kuttu puris or sama rice. Despite its simplicity, it’s a comforting dish that adds warmth to the fasting meals.
4. Singhara Atta Halwa
For those with a sweet tooth, Singhara Atta Halwa (water chestnut flour halwa) is a delightful treat. Prepared with ghee, jaggery, and flour, it has a soft and rich texture. This halwa is not just delicious but also a good source of carbohydrates and fats, keeping you satisfied throughout the day.
5. Sama Ke Chawal (Vrat Ke Chawal)
Although regular rice is prohibited, Sama ke Chawal or barnyard millet serves as a great substitute. You can make a light and flavorful pulao with vegetables like potatoes and pumpkin, or prepare a simple khichdi with cumin and ghee. This dish is easy to digest and a perfect choice for those looking for a light meal during the fast.
6. Rajgira Paratha
Rajgira, or amaranth flour, is another popular flour used during fasting. Parathas made from this flour are nutritious and filling. These parathas are soft and are often served with yogurt or a vegetable curry. Rajgira is high in protein and calcium, making it a healthy option for fasting days.
Healthy Navratri Fasting Dishes
While fasting can sometimes lead to overeating fried foods, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet. Here are some light, healthy dishes to keep you energized:
- Fruits and Nuts: A simple fruit salad or a mix of dry fruits like almonds, raisins, and cashews can be eaten as snacks or light meals. These provide natural sugars and healthy fats to keep your energy levels high.
- Lauki Ka Raita: This cooling side dish is made by mixing grated bottle gourd (lauki) with yogurt and flavored with cumin and rock salt. It’s light, and refreshing, and keeps your digestive system in check.
Creative Navratri Dishes
For those looking to get creative in the kitchen, here are a few interesting alternatives to traditional fasting dishes:
- Sweet Potato Chaat: Roasted sweet potatoes tossed with rock salt, green chilies, and lemon juice make for a delicious snack. This dish is rich in fiber and will keep you full for longer.
- Paneer Tikka: Paneer is an excellent source of protein during Navratri. Marinated in yogurt and spices, grilled Paneer Tikka is a tasty and nutritious dish that’s easy to make.
- Pumpkin Sabzi: A simple stir-fry of pumpkin with rock salt and cumin, Pumpkin Sabzi is a light and flavorful dish that pairs well with kuttu ki puri or sama ke chawal.
Conclusion
Fasting during Navratri doesn’t have to be monotonous or boring. With a variety of delicious and creative dishes to choose from, you can enjoy the spiritual benefits of fasting while indulging in some lip-smacking food. From sabudana khichdi to paneer tikka, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during these nine auspicious days. Embrace the spirit of Navratri with these sattvic delights and make your fasting experience not just fulfilling but also flavorful.
Read more: What Can I Eat in Navratri Fast?
