What Can I Eat in Navratri Fast: Navratri, meaning “nine nights,” is one of the most widely celebrated festivals across India, dedicated to worshipping the goddess Durga in her nine divine forms. Fasting during Navratri is not just a spiritual practice but also a way to cleanse the body, mind, and soul. Fasting rituals vary from region to region, but the central idea remains the same – to observe a sattvic (pure) diet, avoiding heavy, tamasic foods that are believed to increase negativity and lethargy.
In this blog, we’ll explore what you can eat during the Navratri fast, including commonly allowed foods, spices, and beverages, and offer a guide on how to maintain energy while fasting.
What To Eat in Navratri Fast
There are several foods allowed during the Navratri fast. Let’s take a deep dive into the foods that are permitted and enjoyed during Navratri.
1. Fruits
Fruits are a core part of the Navratri fasting diet. They are not only nourishing but also hydrating. Many people prefer fruit-only fasts, but you can combine them with other ingredients for variety. Popular choices include:
- Bananas: A quick source of energy due to their high potassium content.
- Apples: Easy to digest and packed with fiber.
- Pomegranate: Full of antioxidants and gives a burst of freshness.
- Papaya: Gentle on the stomach and aids digestion.
Fruits can be eaten raw, blended into smoothies, or added to fasting-friendly desserts like fruit chaat.
2. Sabudana (Tapioca Pearls)
Sabudana is a fasting staple and highly versatile. It is rich in carbohydrates, making it an excellent source of energy during the fast. You can prepare it in various ways:
- Sabudana Khichdi: A savory dish prepared with soaked sabudana, boiled potatoes, roasted peanuts, and green chilies.
- Sabudana Vada: These deep-fried fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, made with sabudana, mashed potatoes, and spices.
Tip: Ensure that the sabudana is soaked well and not sticky for the best texture.
3. Makhana (Foxnuts)
Makhana, also known as lotus seeds, is one of the healthiest snacks you can eat while fasting. They are rich in fiber and low in calories, making them light yet filling:
- Roasted Makhana: Tossed in ghee with a sprinkle of rock salt and black pepper.
- Makhana Kheer: A sweet dish made by boiling makhana in milk and flavored with cardamom.
Makhana is an excellent alternative to high-calorie snacks and can be consumed throughout the day.
4. Kuttu ka Atta (Buckwheat Flour)
Buckwheat flour is gluten-free and rich in protein and fiber, making it a fasting-friendly grain alternative. You can prepare:
- Kuttu Puris: Deep-fried buckwheat flour bread, often served with potato curry.
- Kuttu Parathas: Flattened bread made using buckwheat flour, cooked with ghee and served with curd.
Pro tip: To make the dough easier to handle, mix kuttu ka atta with boiled potatoes or use minimal water while kneading.
5. Singhare ka Atta (Water Chestnut Flour)
Like buckwheat flour, singhare ka atta is another popular fasting flour. It’s packed with nutrients and perfect for preparing light meals:
- Singhare ke Atte ka Halwa: A sweet dish made by roasting the flour in ghee and adding sugar or jaggery.
- Singhare ke Atte ki Puri: A crispy deep-fried bread eaten with aloo sabzi or curd.
Singhara flour is naturally gluten-free and digests easily, keeping you energized during the fast.
6. Samak ke Chawal (Barnyard Millet)
Samak ke chawal, often referred to as “vrat ke chawal,” is a millet that resembles rice but is permitted during fasts. It’s a perfect rice substitute for those who want a traditional meal experience:
- Samak Rice Pulao: A savory dish made with samak rice, vegetables like boiled potatoes, and peanuts.
- Samak Rice Kheer: A delicious pudding made by cooking samak in milk, flavored with cardamom and dry fruits.
Samak rice is light and easy to digest, making it a fasting favorite.
7. Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes
Potatoes and sweet potatoes are used widely during fasting as they are filling, nutritious, and versatile:
- Aloo ki Sabzi: A potato curry made with rock salt, black pepper, and minimal spices.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Lightly seasoned with rock salt and roasted until caramelized, offering a naturally sweet and healthy side.
Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and are rich in fiber and vitamins.
8. Dairy Products
Dairy plays an important role in the Navratri diet, providing much-needed protein and calcium:
- Milk and Curd: Consumed as a part of meals or with fruits.
- Paneer (Cottage Cheese): Used in dishes like paneer tikka or paneer kheer.
Dairy products are also easily digestible and help maintain a balanced diet during fasting.
9. Sendha Namak (Rock Salt)
One of the most significant dietary changes during Navratri fast is the use of sendha namak instead of regular table salt. It’s unprocessed, and according to traditional beliefs, it’s purer than iodized salt.
Permitted Spices and Oils
Fasting does not mean bland food. While many spices are avoided, there are several that are allowed to enhance the flavor of your dishes:
- Cumin (Jeera): Used to temper sabudana khichdi or kuttu puris.
- Black Pepper: Adds heat to dishes without being too overpowering.
- Green Chilies: Allowed in moderation for a touch of spice.
- Ghee, Peanut Oil, and Coconut Oil: These are the preferred oils for cooking during the fast, providing healthy fats.
Note: Avoid using refined oils or mustard oil, as they are not permitted during Navratri.
Beverages to Consume
Staying hydrated is essential during fasting. There are several beverages that you can consume during Navratri:
- Coconut Water: Rich in electrolytes, coconut water is an excellent way to stay hydrated and refreshed.
- Lassi and Buttermilk: Made from yogurt, these drinks aid digestion and keep your stomach cool.
- Milk-based Drinks: Milkshakes made with fruits like banana or papaya are both nourishing and filling.
- Herbal Teas: Caffeine-free herbal teas with ingredients like ginger or tulsi help in detoxification.
It’s best to avoid tea and coffee during the fast as they can cause dehydration.
What Not to Eat During Navratri Fast
There are certain foods that are strictly avoided during the Navratri fast:
- Cereal Grains: Wheat, rice, corn, and all other regular grains are not consumed. Instead, alternatives like buckwheat and samak rice are used.
- Table Salt: Sendha namak (rock salt) is the only salt allowed.
- Onions and Garlic: Considered tamasic, these are avoided as they promote lethargy.
- Non-Vegetarian Food: All forms of meat, eggs, and alcohol are prohibited.
Fasting Tips for Navratri
To make the most out of your fasting experience, follow these tips:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, coconut water, and milk-based drinks to stay hydrated.
- Eat Small Portions Frequently: Avoid overloading yourself with large meals. Instead, have small portions of fruits, nuts, and sabudana throughout the day.
- Balance Your Diet: Make sure your meals include a healthy mix of carbohydrates (sabudana), proteins (paneer), and fats (ghee).
Conclusion
Fasting during Navratri is a time-honored tradition, meant to purify both the body and mind. By focusing on sattvic foods, you can maintain energy while also connecting spiritually with the essence of the festival. From fruits and millets to delicious treats like makhana and kheer, Navratri fasting food is anything but boring. Stay nourished, hydrated, and enjoy the festive spirit while respecting the traditional fasting practices.
FAQs
- Can we eat processed foods in Navratri fast?
- No, it’s recommended to avoid processed and packaged foods as they may contain additives or ingredients not allowed during fasting.
- Are peanuts allowed in the fast?
- Yes, peanuts are commonly used in dishes like sabudana khichdi and chutneys for fasting.
- What oil is best for cooking during the fast?
- Ghee, peanut oil, and coconut oil are the best choices as they are pure and allowed during Navratri fasts.
Read more: Can We Eat Radish in Navratri Fast?
