Top 3 Healthy and Delicious Fasting Recipes for Navaratri

Navaratri is a time of spiritual reflection and celebration for many, and with it comes the practice of fasting. While fasting can often mean sacrificing flavour and satisfaction, it doesn’t have to be that way! Here are three healthy and delicious fasting recipes that will keep you nourished and satisfied during this festive season.

1. Kuttu Ki Poori (Buckwheat Flour Bread)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup kuttu (buckwheat) flour
• 1 medium-sized boiled potato, mashed
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
• Rock salt, to taste
• Water, as needed
• Ghee or oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the buckwheat flour, mashed potato, cumin seeds, black pepper, and rock salt.
2. Gradually add water to form a soft dough. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into small balls and roll them out into small circles.
4. Heat ghee or oil in a pan and fry the pooris until they puff up and are golden brown.
5. Serve hot with a side of yogurt or cucumber salad.

Health Benefits: Buckwheat is rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it an excellent option for fasting.

2. Sabudana Khichdi (Tapioca Pearl Stir-Fry)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sabudana (tapioca pearls)
• 2 medium-sized potatoes, diced
• 1-2 green chilies, chopped
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 2 tbsp peanut powder
• Rock salt, to taste
• Fresh coriander, chopped, for garnish
• Ghee or oil, for cooking

Instructions:

1. Rinse the sabudana well and soak it in water for about 4-5 hours or overnight until it becomes soft.
2. In a pan, heat ghee or oil and add cumin seeds and green chilies. Sauté for a minute.
3. Add the diced potatoes and cook until they are tender.
4. Add the soaked sabudana, rock salt, and peanut powder. Stir well and cook until the sabudana becomes translucent.
5. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot.

Health Benefits: Sabudana is easy to digest and provides quick energy, making it ideal for fasting.

3. Fruit Chaat (Fruit Salad)

Ingredients:

• 1 apple, diced
• 1 banana, sliced
• 1 orange, segmented
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• Rock salt, to taste
• 1/2 tsp chaat masala (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine all the chopped fruits.
2. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle rock salt and chaat masala.
3. Toss gently to mix everything well.
4. Serve immediately for a refreshing snack.

Health Benefits: This colorful fruit chaat is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, helping to keep your energy levels up during fasting.

Conclusion

Fasting during Navaratri doesn’t have to mean bland food. With these three healthy and delicious recipes, you can enjoy your fasting period while nourishing your body. Whether you opt for the savory goodness of kuttu ki pooris, the comforting flavors of sabudana khichdi, or the refreshing zing of fruit chaat, you’ll find satisfaction without compromising your health. Embrace the spirit of the season and celebrate with these delightful dishes!

Happy Navaratri!