By Ranita Ray
Chaitra Navratri vrat, or fasting rules, have been clearly laid down. The devotees who fast during these days must adhere to sattvic foods. If you are observing it for the first time, here are the top 8 spices allowed in Chaitra Navratri vrat.
Navratris forbids table salt. Sendha namak or rock salt is allowed, as it is considered pure. It is unprocessed and is excellent for vrat food.
Cumin or jeera powder is allowed in Chaitra Navratri fasting. For tempering, use whole cumin seeds. One can also dry roast and grind whole cumin seeds.
Laung can be used in Chaitra Navratri cookery since cloves have been considered India's "divine bloom" since 800 AD. It's often used in sattvic sweet and savoury cooking.
Hindu vrat ka khana uses green cardamom, or Choti elaichi. This spice enhances both savoury and sweet sattvic foods' taste and aroma.
Another sattvic spice for Chaitra Navratri is black peppercorn or kali mirch. Ayurveda says kali mirch is laghu or simple to digest. It enhances taste, appetite, and digestion.
Cinnamon is another pure spice permitted in Chaitra Navratri sattvic meal. Apart from adding flavour, it controls blood sugar, improves digestion and eases gut issues.
You may also use nutmeg or jaiphal in Chaitra Navratri vrat foods. Nutmeg also aids digestion, sleep, and immunity. Adding it to your fasting diet can help your body prepare for maximum health.
Carom seeds are often used to ease gastrointestinal distress and improve digestion. Many devotees add it to kuttu ke atte ke puri dough. It also balances sattvic savoury meals.