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The festive season is almost here, starting with Sharad Navratri. People wait all year round for this most auspicious festival in India. It is not only celebrated in India but also across the globe. This nine-day celebration is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga and her various manifestations. It marks the victory of good over evil and symbolises the triumph of the goddess over the demon Mahishasura. This year, Sharad Navratri begins on October 15 and will end on October 24, when the country will celebrate Dussehra.
During Sharad Navratri, devotees observe rigorous fasting, engage in prayers, and participate in elaborate rituals, including the recitation of religious texts and the performance of traditional dance forms like Garba and Dandiya Raas. The devotees do not eat non-vegetarian items. Even so, they omit the consumption of garlic and ginger. Instead of normal salt, they switch to rock salt for these nine days. They usually consume vegetarian foods.
However, with the limited options for vegetarian foods, it often gets confused as to what would be appropriate to consume these nine days and what not. Some of the common fasting or vrat foods include kuttu atta, singhara atta, sendha namak, makhana, and sabudana. But do you know there are other foods that you can include in your fasting diet while following the general fasting rules? Well, yes!
We have five surprising foods that can be added to your vrat-friendly diet, and rather than the regular meal, a different one can be added.
Take a look:
- Quinoa
Often mistaken for a grain, it is actually a gluten-free edible seed that belongs to the same family as amaranth. This ancient crop, native to the Andes region of South America, is valued for its exceptional nutritional profile. It is widely grown in India. This nutritional powerhouse can be an excellent substitute for rice during your fasting days.
Why Quinoa?
Quinoa is a complete protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans. It's also naturally gluten-free, which makes it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Rich in dietary fibre, vitamins, and minerals like magnesium, iron, and potassium, quinoa is a powerhouse of health benefits. Quinoa can make for a satisfying one-pot meal containing sweet potatoes, coconut, and nuts.
- Himalayan Pink Salt
Usually during Sharad Navratri, rock salt, also known as sendha namak, is used in foods. However, there is another alternative to it. Himalayan pink salt is considered one of the purest forms of salt on Earth. Some argue that it is even purer than sendha namak. The salt does not undergo any industrial processes, remaining unrefined and unprocessed.
Why Himalayan Pink Salt?
Mined from ancient salt deposits deep within the Himalayan mountains, it has become increasingly popular as a gourmet and health-conscious alternative to conventional table salt. Himalayan pink salt is revered for its rich mineral content, including potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron, which gives it a slightly different flavour profile and nutritional benefits compared to regular table salt. Himalayan pink salt provides health benefits such as improved electrolyte balance, better hydration, and support for respiratory and circulatory health. Many people appreciate its milder, less salty taste and believe it enhances the flavour of their dishes.
- Sweet Potatoes
Potatoes are undeniably the most popular fasting food for Navratri. However, sometimes the regular vrat dishes made of potatoes may get boring. However, we are here to rescue you. Sweet potatoes are delightful additions to the Navratri fasting menu. These starchy and nutrient-rich tubers can be prepared in various ways, from roasting to boiling or mashing. They offer a sweet and satisfying flavour.
Why Sweet Potatoes?
They are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, dietary fibre, and a range of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. Their natural sweetness makes them a versatile ingredient, suitable for both savoury and sweet dishes. Sweet potatoes can be baked, roasted, mashed, or even made into fries and pies. Additionally, their health benefits are noteworthy, as they are known to support eye health, boost the immune system, and regulate blood sugar levels due to their low glycemic index.
- Brown Sugar
Although regular sugar is permitted during fasting, it’s time to pick up a healthier alternative, brown sugar. Honey and jaggery are also excellent choices if you’re planning to keep your fasting sweet tooth satisfied without compromising on health.
Why Brown Sugar?
It is essentially granulated sugar that contains molasses, which gives it its distinct colour and flavour. Brown sugar comes in various forms, including light and dark, each with a different molasses content, resulting in varying degrees of sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Seeds
Flax seeds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds can be considered during Navratri fasting. These seeds are versatile and can be sprinkled over veggies or rolled into kuttu atta, offering extra nutrition and flavour to your fasting meals.
Why Seeds?
They are rich sources of essential nutrients, including protein, dietary fibre, healthy fats (like omega-3 fatty acids), vitamins, and minerals. Seeds are particularly renowned for their high protein content, making them valuable for vegetarians and vegans seeking plant-based protein sources. Moreover, their dietary fibre aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Seeds are packed with vitamins such as vitamin E and B vitamins, which play crucial roles in various bodily functions. They also offer an abundance of essential minerals like magnesium, zinc, and iron, which are essential for overall well-being. Additionally, the healthy fats in seeds can support heart health and reduce inflammation.
