Navratri 2023 Special Recipes: Savoring Divine Flavors During the Festival
Navratri, the nine-night festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, is a time of spiritual reflection, devotion, and celebration. Fasting during Navratri is a common practice, and it doesn’t mean compromising on delicious flavours. In fact, Navratri fasting recipes are known for their unique blend of taste and tradition. In this article, we will explore a selection of delightful Navratri special recipes that allow you to savour divine flavours while observing the fasting rituals.
Sabudana Khichdi
Sabudana Khichdi is a quintessential Navratri fasting dish. It’s a flavorful combination of soaked tapioca pearls, roasted peanuts, and spices like cumin and green chillies. Seasoned with fresh coriander and a dash of lemon juice, it’s a delightful dish that provides energy and keeps you full during your fast.
Kuttu Ki Roti
Kuttu, or buckwheat flour, is a staple during Navratri fasting. Kuttu ki roti is a simple and nutritious bread made from this flour. You can enhance its taste by adding chopped fresh herbs like coriander and mint. It pairs perfectly with a side of plain yoghurt or aloo tamatar sabzi (potato and tomato curry).
Singhare Ki Poori
Singhare (water chestnut) flour is another popular choice during Navratri fasting. Singhare ki poori is a deep-fried bread made from this flour. These crispy and puffy pooris are best enjoyed with aloo sabzi (potato curry) or yoghurt.
Aloo Jeera
Aloo jeera, or cumin-spiced potatoes, is a classic Navratri dish. It’s simple to prepare yet incredibly flavorful. Boiled potatoes are tempered with cumin seeds, green chillies, and a pinch of rock salt (sendha namak) for a burst of taste.
Makhana Kheer
For a sweet treat during Navratri, try making makhana kheer. Makhana, or fox nuts, are roasted and then simmered in milk with sugar and flavoured with cardamom and saffron. This creamy and comforting dessert is perfect to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Fruit Chaat
A refreshing and healthy option for Navratri fasting is fruit chaat. Dice a variety of fruits like apples, bananas, and pomegranates, and add a pinch of black salt, roasted cumin powder, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a delightful and tangy salad.
Samak Rice Pulao
Samak rice, also known as barnyard millet, is a nutritious grain often used during Navratri fasting. Prepare a flavorful samak rice pulao by sautéing the rice with ghee, cumin seeds, and vegetables like peas, carrots, and potatoes. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Rajgira Paratha
Rajgira, or amaranth flour, is another fasting favourite. Rajgira paratha, a flatbread made with this flour, can be stuffed with mashed potatoes or paneer to create a filling meal. Enjoy it with a side of yogurt or aloo sabzi.
Coconut Ladoo
Coconut ladoo is a sweet delicacy made from grated coconut, condensed milk, and cardamom powder. Roll them into small, round shapes and garnish with chopped nuts. These sweet treats are perfect for satisfying your sugar cravings during Navratri.
Sama Rice Dosa
Sama rice dosa is a gluten-free and crispy option for Navratri. Blend soaked sama rice with grated coconut and green chillies to create a smooth batter. Cook dosas on a hot griddle and serve with coconut chutney or aloo sabzi.
Conclusion
Navratri fasting recipes offer a delightful array of flavours and traditions. These dishes not only cater to the dietary restrictions of the fast but also celebrate the rich culinary heritage of the festival. As you embark on your Navratri fasting journey, savour these special recipes that not only nourish the body but also nurture the spirit, connecting you with the divine in a delicious way.