Cultural diversity is the true essence of India. Navratri, the nine-day festival, is devoted to goddess Durga’s nine manifestations to remember the triumph of good over evil. Although the festival is centered on a common religious belief, it is observed differently across the nation through varied approaches to seeking blessings, ways of worship, rituals & traditions, and ultimately, a vibrant and diversified culinary culture.
Fasting is a crucial part of the Navratri preparations, and devotees avoid eating non-vegetarian food. Many households refrain from consuming onion and garlic and commit to a complete sattvic diet. They follow a simple meal with no or minimal spices and emphasize consuming forgotten grains like buckwheat, finger millet, water chestnut flour,
Etc. Today numerous people tend to explore multiple dietary options during these 9 days deserting the age-old puja food that’s dished out in the kitchen year after year. It is not necessary to limit ‘vrat ka khana’ to solely fruits and a bland, watery diet. The Food Affairs brings delights from all communities, each with its unique specialties that are worthwhile to try. Here is a quick guide.
1. Orange ginger basil mojito
The complementing flavours of orange and basil in a Mojito make the mocktail incredibly reviving and tasty. Although it may sound unusual to substitute fresh basil for fresh mint, it is a delightful treat for the taste buds!
2. Rose sorbet
During the fasting days, Rose sorbet, created by freezing a mixture of rose syrup and lime juice, is a sweet and nourishing refreshing drink that has a soulful taste.
3. Ghee-roasted Shakerkand
Ghee-baked sweet potatoes have a deliciously buttery flavour. A little sprinkle of cinnamon is the perfect finishing ingredient to bring out its natural sweetness without adding more sugar. This is an assured dish that will quickly be among your favourites!
4. Sabudana thalipeeth
Sabudana thalipeeth are simply crispy, soft pancakes. If one wants to stay away from deep-fried snacks, this is an excellent replacement for Sabudana Vada. It is a light snack that can be eaten with vrat wale aloo or dahi aloo to make a substantial dinner when prepared on vrat.
5. Aloo lachha tikki
Aloo Lachha Tikki is a fasting meal made from grated potatoes that may be quickly prepared for lunch, snacks, or dinner. These shallow-fried bakes, known for the tanginess provided by lemon and chilies, taste best when served hot with a bowl of coriander and sweet date chutney to enhance the flavour.
6. Sitafal basundi
Sitaphal basundi, made from ripe custard Apple pulp, is the perfect way to end a meal when you’re fasting. The cardamom sprinkle completely elevates the flavour of this dish. This is one of the vrat recipes that satisfies sweet cravings like no other.
Fasting is an integral and significant part of Indian culture. While fasting, particularly on holy days, is believed to offer numerous benefits for the health of the body, mind, and spirit. Some of the aforementioned recipes would undoubtedly add great taste while retaining the simplicity and piety of fasting cuisine, making it a joyful and healthful mealtime.