Traditional Delights: Navratri Food Festival Celebrating Culture

Navratri is a time of fasting, devotion, and celebrating the divine feminine energy.

- TDG NETWORK

During this period, many people follow specific dietary guidelines, consuming only sattvic (pure) and vrat (fasting) food that aligns with the spiritual and religious significance of the festival. These dishes are usually free from grains, garlic, onions, and certain spices, focusing on fresh fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.

Here are some popular dishes for Navratri:

1. Sabudana Khichdi Sabudana (tapioca pearls) is a staple during Navratri fasting. Sabudana khichdi is a light and delicious dish made with soaked sabudana, potatoes, peanuts, and mild spices. It's easy to digest and provides a good energy boost.

Ingredients: 1 cup sabudana 2 medium potatoes (boiled) 1/4 cup roasted peanuts (crushed) Cumin seeds Green chilies (optional) Rock salt (sendha namak) Fresh coriander leaves Ghee (clarified butter)

2. Kuttu Ka Paratha (Buckwheat Flour Paratha) Buckwheat flour (kuttu ka atta) is commonly used during Navratri fasting to make gluten-free parathas. It is paired with yogurt or a cooling chutney to enhance the flavor.

Ingredients: 1 cup kuttu ka atta 1 boiled potato Rock salt Water (for kneading) Ghee or oil (for cooking)

3. Singhara Atta Halwa (Water Chestnut Flour Halwa) Singhara (water chestnut flour) is another key ingredient during fasting. This halwa is made with water chestnut flour, ghee, sugar, and cardamom, offering a rich and satisfying treat.

Ingredients: 1 cup singhara atta 2 tablespoons ghee 1/4 cup sugar (or as per taste) 1/2 cup milk or water Cardamom powder Chopped dry fruits (optional)

4. Aloo Tikki (Potato Cutlets) Aloo Tikki is a popular snack during Navratri, made with mashed potatoes, boiled and mixed with a variety of spices and herbs, then shallow fried in ghee.