Navratri is a nine-day-long Hindu festival that is celebrated with much enthusiasm and zeal in India. It is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga and her nine avatars and is observed twice a year, once in the month of Chaitra (March–April) and again in Ashwin (September–October). During these nine days, people fast, pray, and engage in various cultural activities. One of the most important aspects of Navratri is the food that is consumed during the festival.
Navratri is a time when people abstain from consuming non-vegetarian food and alcohol and instead focus on eating vegetarian food. There are several dishes that are prepared during Navratri that are not only delicious but also very nutritious.
Here are some of the most popular Navratri dishes that you can try at home:
Sabudana Khichdi
Made from tapioca pearls, potatoes, peanuts, and spices, Sabudana Khichdi is a delicious and filling dish that is also easy to make. It is often consumed during the fast, as it is considered a light and nutritious meal. The sago pearls are soaked overnight and then cooked with roasted peanuts, potatoes, and spices. It is a quick and easy dish to make and is perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Kuttu Ka Dosa
Kuttu Ka Dosa is a gluten-free dosa that is made from buckwheat flour. It is a healthy and delicious dish that can be eaten for breakfast or as a snack. Made from buckwheat flour, this dosa can be enjoyed by those who are fasting. It is a healthy and delicious option that can be filled with ingredients such as potatoes or paneer. Kuttu ka dosa is easy to make and can be served with coconut chutney or aloo sabzi. With its crispy texture and unique taste, this dosa is a must-try during Navratri.
Singhare Ke Atte Ki Puri
Singhara, also known as water chestnut, is the main ingredient used to make this puri, which is a type of unleavened flatbread. Singhare ke atte ki puri is gluten-free and can be enjoyed by those who are fasting during Navratri. The puri is made by mixing water chestnut flour, boiled potatoes, and spices, and then deep-frying it. The dish is usually served with aloo sabzi, a potato-based curry, and is a delicious and healthy way to celebrate the festival.
Aloo Jeera
This simple yet flavourful dish consists of potatoes cooked with cumin seeds, ginger, and green chillies, making it an ideal meal during the fasting period. Aloo Jeera is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed with rice, roti, or puri. It is also a great source of energy and essential nutrients, making it a healthy and delicious choice for Navratri. It is a quick and easy dish to make and is perfect for lunch or dinner.
Paneer Kofta
This dish is made by combining crumbled paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with mashed potatoes, spices, and herbs and shaping the mixture into balls. These balls are then deep-fried until crispy and golden brown. The koftas are then simmered in a creamy tomato-based gravy, flavoured with aromatic spices. Paneer kofta is a rich and indulgent dish that is perfect for special occasions like Navratri, and it pairs perfectly with naan or rice.
Samak Rice Pulao
Made with samak rice, which is also known as barnyard millet, this pulao is gluten-free and a great alternative to regular rice. It is usually prepared with ghee, cumin seeds, green chillies, and boiled vegetables like peas and carrots, making it a healthy and filling dish. Samak rice pulao can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of yoghurt or cucumber raita. This dish is not only tasty but also nutritious, making it a perfect addition to your Navratri menu.
Lauki Ki Sabzi
Lauki ki sabzi, also known as bottle gourd curry, is a popular dish consumed during Navratri. This simple yet delicious recipe involves cooking bottle gourd with a blend of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. It is a light and healthy dish that is perfect for people observing fasts. Lauki ki sabzi not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body with essential nutrients.
Arbi Masala
This dish is made with arbi (taro root), which is cooked with a flavourful blend of spices and herbs. The dish is typically prepared by boiling or steaming the arbi before sautéing it with a mix of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chilli powder. It is a simple yet delicious dish that can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main course. Arbi Masala is a great addition to any Navratri meal, providing a healthy and satisfying option.
Makhana Kheer
Made with fox nuts, also known as makhana, milk, sugar, and cardamom powder, this creamy dessert is not only easy to make but also provides a good source of protein and fibre. It is also gluten-free and low in fat, making it a healthy option for those who are fasting during Navratri. Makhana kheer is a delicious way to end your meal and satisfy your sweet tooth while observing the fast.
Singhare Ke Atte Ka Halwa
Made from water chestnut flour, ghee, sugar, and milk, this dessert is not only delicious but also provides energy and nutrition during the fasting period. Singhare Ke Atte Ka Halwa is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed as a dessert or a snack. Its rich and creamy texture, along with the nutty flavour of singhare ka atta, makes it a perfect dish to enjoy during the auspicious festival of Navratri.
Sabudana Vada
This vada is made with soaked sago pearls, potatoes, peanuts, and spices. Sabudana vada is a gluten-free and vegan snack that can be enjoyed by everyone. It is typically deep-fried until crispy and served with a mint-coriander chutney or sweet yoghurt. Sabudana vada is not only a delicious and crunchy snack but also provides energy and keeps one full for a longer period, making it a perfect dish for fasting during Navratri.
Fruit Chaat
This tasty and healthy snack is made by combining a variety of fresh fruits, such as apples, bananas, pomegranate seeds, and more, with a sprinkle of chaat masala and lemon juice. It's a perfect dish to break the fast as it's light and refreshing, providing essential nutrients and energy after a long day of fasting. Fruit chaat is not only delicious but also a great way to promote a healthy lifestyle during Navratri.
In conclusion, Navratri is a time to celebrate with family and friends, and what better way to celebrate than with delicious food! These 12 Navratri dishes are a must-try for anyone looking to experience the flavours and traditions of the festival. So, gather your loved ones, cook up a storm, and enjoy the festival of Navratri to the fullest.