By Suprita Mitter
August 5, 2024
During Sawan, a sacred month dedicated to Lord Shiva, many people observe fasting, which often involves consuming specific foods while avoiding grains, meat, and certain spices. Here are some dishes that are typically consumed during Sawan fasts.
Sabudana (tapioca pearls) is a popular ingredient during fasting. Sabudana khichdi is made by soaking the pearls and cooking them with peanuts, potatoes, cumin seeds, and green chillies. It's a filling and flavourful dish that provides energy throughout the day.
Kuttu (buckwheat) flour is commonly used during fasting to make puris. The dough is prepared with water and a little rock salt, then rolled out and fried. These puris are often served with potato curry or yoghurt.
This is a simple potato curry made with boiled potatoes, cooked with minimal spices such as cumin and rock salt, which are allowed during fasting. It’s a quick and satisfying dish that pairs well with puris or kuttu ki roti.
Samak rice is a type of millet that resembles broken rice and is allowed during fasting. It’s cooked with vegetables like carrots and peas, seasoned with cumin and rock salt, and makes for a nutritious and tasty meal.
Makhana (fox nuts) kheer is a creamy dessert made with milk, sugar, and makhana. The makhana is roasted and then cooked in milk until it thickens, creating a delicious and satisfying sweet dish.
A refreshing and healthy option, fruit chaat is made by mixing seasonal fruits such as bananas, apples, and pomegranates with a dash of rock salt and lemon juice. It’s light, nutritious, and hydrating.
Rajgira (amaranth) flour is another popular ingredient during fasting. Parathas made from this flour are nutritious, soft and filling, making them ideal for a fasting meal.