Navratri is a nine-day festival dedicated to the nine avatars of Goddess Durga. Each day is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm. During these nine days, devotees fast and follow a sattvic diet. Some people choose to avoid consuming onion and garlic as Navratri is a time for spiritual reflection, prayer, and devotion. But have you ever wondered why? Well, there are many factors behind this popular belief.
Why Onion-Garlic Is Avoided During Navratri
As per Ayurveda, there are three categories of food i.e., sattvic, rajasic, and tamasic. Onions and garlic are considered rajasic and tamasic foods, associated with stimulating and impure qualities. They are believed to increase passion and dull the mind, which is why some people avoid them during Navratri in favor of sattvic foods that are believed to promote purity and calmness. Some experts believe that avoiding onions and garlic during Navratri is easier on their digestive system. These ingredients can sometimes cause bloating and gas in certain individuals, so abstaining from them during the festival can help maintain a light and easily digestible diet.
This Navratri, here are six dishes that can be made without adding onion and garlic. Have a look.
Aloo Sabzi
A simple and flavorful dish made with potatoes and a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and green chilies. It's often served with chapati or rice. Without onion and garlic, this classic potato curry is easy to make and tasty.
Paneer Bhurji
A creamy and rich curry made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese), tomato-based gravy, and various spices. It's a popular choice for those looking for onion and garlic-free options. It is easy to make and can also be used as a stuffing for your morning paratha.
Chana Masala
Chana masala is the most loved Indian dish. This hearty and flavorful dish features chickpeas cooked in a tomato-based sauce with spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. It's often served with rice or naan or sama rice too. Ever tried this dish?
Palak Paneer
If there is a discussion about the most popular and nutritious Indian dish, palak paneer will definitely be one of them. Made with pureed spinach, paneer, and a blend of spices, onion-garlic-free palak paneer is a healthy and wholesome Indian dish.
Dal Tadka
Dal tadka is an absolute comfort, no matter without onion-garlic. It is a simple and comforting dish made with lentils cooked with turmeric, cumin, and other spices. The tempering or "tadka" with oil, cumin seeds, and other spices adds extra flavor.
Kala Chane
Kale chane or black chickpeas can be transformed into a delicious dish when made without onion or garlic. Not only it is tasty but also healthy. Just soak black chickpeas and cook them. Prepare a gravy using tomatoes and spices like cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric, red chili powder, etc. This dish is humble and delicious.