This Ram Navami, explore recipes beyond Kuttu Ki Puri, Singhade Ka Halwa and Singhare Ke Pakore. If you’re looking for dairy-free options for family meals, try making dishes which are rich in plant-based nutrients like veggies and pulses. If you’re fasting you must think of protein-rich recipes which can help keep your energy levels up; if you don’t prefer paneer or dishes which have cream, that’s not a problem!
If you’re a fan of simple, minimalist recipes, there are plenty of vegetarian dishes which you can make at home within minutes. Here are some dairy-free festive dishes you can make at home during Ram Navami.
Sabudana Khichdi
This dish is a staple during fasting periods, including Ram Navami, where many followers abstain from consuming dairy products. Sabudana, also known as tapioca pearls, is soaked and then cooked with an aromatic tempering of cumin seeds, green chillies, and roasted peanuts. The result is a light and fluffy texture with a great crunch from the peanuts, making it a satisfying meal.
Aloo Tamatar Sabzi
Savoury potatoes and juicy tomatoes come together in this comforting curry, creating a rich and flavorful base without the need for dairy. The dish is prepared by sautéing onions with spices like cumin seeds and mustard seeds until fragrant, then adding tomatoes and potatoes along with turmeric and chilli powder. As the potatoes cook, they absorb the flavours of the spices and tomatoes and they pair perfectly with rice or roti
Vegetable Pulao
This aromatic rice dish is packed with a colourful assortment of vegetables and fragrant whole spices, making it a vibrant addition to any Ram Navami spread. The basmati rice is cooked with diced carrots, peas, and bell peppers, while cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves infuse the dish with a warm and aromatic flavour. The result is a flavourful and appealing pulao that is sure to impress your guests.
Chana Masala
Chickpeas take centre stage in this hearty and protein-rich curry, which is simmered in a spiced tomato-based gravy. Without the need for dairy, the dish relies on a blend of aromatic spices like coriander, cumin, and garam masala to create a depth of flavour. The chickpeas soak up the rich and savoury sauce and you can also add in some extra lentils to make this heartier.
Bhindi Masala
If you don’t like bhindi, this recipe may change your mind! Sliced okra is cooked with onions, tomatoes, and a medley of spices, including cumin seeds, coriander powder, and turmeric. The savoury and aromatic dish with tender okra and richly spiced tomato gravy makes for a great side in any Indian meal and adds a burst of flavour and texture to your Ram Navami spread.
Dal Tadka
This classic lentil dish is a staple in Indian cuisine and is enjoyed by many during fasting periods like Ram Navami. Split pigeon peas, also known as toor dal, are cooked until soft and creamy, then tempered with a fragrant mixture of spices like cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and asafoetida. The result is a comforting and nutritious dish with a rich and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with rice or roti.
Baingan Bharta
Smoky roasted eggplant is the star of this rustic and flavorful dish. The eggplant is charred over an open flame or roasted until soft and tender, then mashed and cooked with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices like ginger, garlic, and green chillies. The smoky and savoury dish with a rich and complex flavour profile will make this dish a hit!