Paryushan is considered the most important festival in Jainism, a time for spiritual reflection, penance, and self-discipline. It generally lasts eight to ten days and consists of strict adherence to dietary regimes. Many Jains avoid foods that are taboo at other times, such as root vegetables, green vegetables, and processed foods. Within these constraints, one can still prepare delectable and festive delights in conformation with Paryushan guidelines. More difficult is to keep the little ones happy and occupied and their sweet tooth satisfied. Well, what could be a better solution than popsicles made of ice cream? Simple, natural ingredients go into making popsicles an excellent solution. These Paryushan-friendly popsicles soothe, freshen up, cool, and follow the dietary norms of the festival-which gives kids a reason to enjoy a sweet treat after all.
Coconut and Date Popsicles
Coconut and dates are some of the Paryushan-friendly items that come together gorgeously in these delicious popsicles. Just blend together fresh coconut milk and pitted dates until smooth. Pour into popsicle moulds and freeze for a few hours. These popsicles have a deep, caramel-like flavour with natural sweetness from the dates that kids just love. Coconut milk lends a creamy texture sans dairy, making this treat vegan and Paryushan-friendly. The perfect combination of coconut and dates satisfies not only the sweet tooth but also loads your body with a dose of nutritious values, hence making these popsicles guilt-free during the festival.
Almond and Saffron Popsicles
Almonds and saffron are auspicious ingredients in most Indian cultures and fit well in the Paryushan diet. These popsicles are made by soaking almonds overnight and then blending them with water to create almond milk. Add a pinch of saffron to the almond milk and a little bit of jaggery for sweetness. Pour into moulds and freeze. The result is a creamy, nutty popsicle, with the delicate flavour of saffron adding that subtle touch of luxury to this simple treat. Almonds provide protein and healthy fats, while saffron gives a peculiar flavour and attractive golden colour that kids will love.
Mango and Coconut Water Popsicles
Mangoes are one of the favourite fruits of India, and during Paryushan, they may be consumed but in moderation. These mango and coconut water popsicles can be refreshing for kids and will get them hydrated. Simply puree ripe mangoes with fresh coconut water and fill up your popsicle moulds. Freeze until solid, and out comes a delicious, tropical treat that's both hydrating and full of natural sweetness. The coconut water brings a cooling element and even replenishes electrolytes, making these popsicles perfect for hot days. So, the richness of mango flavour mixed with the lightness of coconut water would make a popsicle satisfyingly adequate in weightiness for the palate.
Apple and Cinnamon Popsicles
Apples and cinnamon are one of those classic flavour combinations Comforting and festive. To make these Paryushan-friendly popsicles, first extract some fresh apple juice with the help of a juicer or blender. Add a pinch of cinnamon to the juice and mix well. Pour this mixture into moulds and freeze. Apples sweeten these popsicles naturally, and cinnamon adds a warm note to the palate that kids will just love. Besides, apples are rich in vitamins, and cinnamon is anti-inflammatory, so these popsicles naturally include healthy features. The comforting flavours of apples and cinnamon will remind the kids of desserts they love but fit within the dietary rules of Paryushan.
Pomegranate and Rosewater Popsicles
One of the fruits-pomegranates-eat your fruit has the added benefit of colouring these popsicles. The fresh pomegranate seeds are blended and strained from their juice to remove the pulp. Mix pomegranate juice with a few drops of rosewater for an aromatic twist. Pour into moulds and freeze. These popsicles, in fact, maybe something a feast for one's senses, as the tartness of the pomegranate combines with the subtle floral notes of rosewater. These popsicles have an amazing red colour that will attract kids and will certainly be a hit among them. Pomegranates include so many antioxidants, so besides being scrumptious, these popsicles also happen to be healthy.
Paryushan is the time for spiritual disciplining, which does not imply that children have to stay away from any mouth-watering eatables. These popsicles are Paryushan-friendly, containing natural wholesome ingredients that would help in keeping your kids happy and following the dietary restrictions of the festival at the same time.