Navratri Garba sessions are an exciting blend of dance, energy, and celebration. As you immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats, twirling and clapping through the night, the adrenaline keeps you going, but soon after, the hunger starts to kick in. After hours of active dancing, your body craves something nourishing yet light. It’s the perfect time to whip up some easy, delicious snacks.
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The key to post-Garba snacks is to opt for something quick and easy to prepare. A good snack should be packed with nutrients to restore lost energy but still light enough to avoid feeling too full before bed. Think of options that balance crunchiness and softness, flavours that are both soothing and satisfying. It should be something that can be whipped up in minutes with minimal effort but still feel like a treat after hours of dancing.
Whether you crave something savoury, slightly spicy, or even a bit sweet, you can easily put together a snack using simple ingredients you likely have on hand. Fresh fruits, a hint of spice, and a touch of something crunchy will hit the spot. The best part is, these snacks can be easily customised to your preferences and dietary needs, making them a perfect fit after a night of celebration. Here are a few options.
Paneer Tikka
Paneer tikka is a popular, flavourful snack that’s quick and easy to prepare. Marinate chunks of paneer in a mixture of yoghurt, spices such as turmeric, red chilli powder, and garam masala), and a squeeze of lemon. Skewer the paneer and bake or grill until golden brown and slightly charred. The rich, smoky flavour, paired with the softness of paneer, makes it an irresistible midnight treat. You can even serve it with a tangy green chutney for added zest.
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Masala Maggi
Instant noodles are a classic late-night snack, but when you add a burst of flavours, they become something extraordinary. For Masala Maggi, prepare the noodles as usual and then toss them with a mixture of sautéed onions, tomatoes, green chillies, and spices such as cumin and garam masala. The result is a spicy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying snack. You can also sprinkle some fresh coriander leaves or grated cheese on top for a richer flavour.
Aloo Tikki
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This crispy potato patty is a simple yet hearty option. Mash boiled potatoes and mix with finely chopped onions, green chilies, coriander, and spices such as garam masala and cumin. Shape the mixture into small, round patties and shallow fry them until golden and crispy on both sides. Aloo tikki is a perfect midnight snack that pairs beautifully with tamarind chutney or spicy green chutney. It’s a filling snack that will keep you satisfied long after your dance sessions.
Vegetable and Cheese Stuffed Lettuce Wraps
For a fresh and light option, Vegetable and Cheese Stuffed Lettuce Wraps are a great midnight snack. Use fresh, large lettuce leaves as wraps and fill them with finely chopped raw vegetables such as carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers. You can also add small cubes of cottage cheese (paneer) for a protein boost. Drizzle a bit of lemon juice and sprinkle rock salt for flavor. These wraps are low in calories but packed with essential vitamins, making them an ideal option if you’re looking for a light yet fulfilling snack that’s easy to digest.
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Vegetable Sandwich
A vegetable sandwich is a light yet nutritious snack to help you unwind after dancing. Simply layer slices of cucumber, tomatoes, lettuce, and onions between two slices of whole wheat or multigrain bread. For added flavor, spread some mayonnaise or green chutney on the bread. You can also grill the sandwich to give it a crispy texture, making it the perfect snack for when you’re craving something simple but satisfying. This snack is quick to assemble, healthy, and packed with nutrients.
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Singhara Flour Pancakes
Singhara flour (water chestnut flour) is another great gluten-free option for Navratri. To make Singhara Flour Pancakes, simply mix singhara flour with water, rock salt, and finely chopped coriander leaves. Pour the batter onto a hot pan and cook both sides until golden brown. These pancakes are light you can enjoy them with a side of yoghurt or a green chutney made from mint and coriander. The texture is slightly crisp on the outside, soft on the inside.
Fruit Chaat
For something refreshing and healthy after an energetic Garba session, Fruit Chaat is the perfect option. Chop up a mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pomagranate, oranges, and bananas. Toss them together with a pinch of chaat masala, black salt, and a sprinkle of lemon juice. The sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor of fruit chaat is invigorating and provides a quick energy boost. Plus, it’s a guilt-free snack that balances sweetness with a touch of spice.