Navratri 2017: What Foods Can You Eat While Fasting (Vrat)?

Highlights

Navratri 2017 begins on 21st September 2017
Navratri marks the celebration nine auspicious days
There are certain fasting rules that one must follow

Sharad Navratri 2017 or Navratri 2017 commenced on 21st September and the festivities will last till 29th September 2017, followed by Vijaydashmi or Dussehra. The holy festival of Navratri marks the celebration of nine auspicious days during which Goddess Durga and her nine forms are worshiped with plenty of offerings and prasad. Many devotees also observe fasts during this period as a mark of respect to the Goddess by denouncing worldly pleasures. There are certain fasting rules that one must follow. Some food items like grains, regular salt, non-vegetarian food and alcohol are strictly avoided. But there are many other ingredients and foods that one is allowed to enjoy during the Navratri fasts. Here's a guide to all that you can eat and enjoy even while fasting. Navratri fasting can be a great time to detox, experiment and try new things.

1. Sama Rice or Swaang ke Chawal

You can make the same dishes with Sama rice or Swaang ke Chawal that regular rice like a wholesome pulao or a sinful kheer. It is not a grain, but is considered as a seed. Grains are not allowed during these Navratri fasts. You can make Sama ki Kheer, Sama ki Khichdi, Sam aka Dhokla and Sama ki Idli. You can even try a Sama Salad with your favourite vegetables.

2. Sabudana (tapioca)

This versatile ingredient can be used to make khichdi, kheer, chips and vada. You can eat the sabudana khichdi with curd and savour the chips and vada with coriander chutney.

_{This versatile ingredient can be used to make khichdi, kheer, chips and vada}

3. Kuttu ka Atta or Buchwheat atta

Kuttu ka atta is the most popularly used ingredient during Navratri fasts. You can make Kuttu ki Puri, Kuttu ki Kachori, Kuttu ka Dosa, Kuttu ka Paratha and pakode. Kuttu tends to dry up your mouth quickly, so it recommended to complement these dishes with a bowl of curd.

4. Singhare Ka Atta

Singhare ka atta or chestnut flour can be used to make fluffy puris that go really well with vrat wale aloo. These puris will keep you full for a longer period and will keep you going through the day.

5. Potatoes

Potato is widely used during Navratri fasting. From dahi-aloo to aloo jeera sabzi with puri and so much more, it is a very versatile ingredient. You can try your hands on aloo kachodis and aloo tikkis too.

_{Potato is widely used during Navratri fasting}

6. Sendha Namak or Rock Salt

You cannot consume common salt during Navratri fasts and are advised to switch to sendha namak or rock salt in its pure form. So, any dish you make while fasting can have sendha namak in it. It has a more subtle taste than regular table salt.

_{You cannot consume common salt during Navratri fasts}

7. Nuts and Raisins

Eat dry fruits like almond, cashew nuts and raisins and others or simply add them to your Navratri dishes for a rich and nutty flavour. Include them so that you don't lose out on the essential nutrients required for the day.

_{Eat dry fruits like walnuts and raisins and others or simply add them to your Navratri dishes}

8. Fresh Fruits

Include fresh fruits in your fasting diet during Sharad Navratri. Fresh seasonal fruits will keep you rejuvenated . Toss all fruits in a bowl and make some fruit chaat for yourself. Don't forget to add some lime juice and rock salt to it.

_{Include fresh fruits in your fasting diet during Sharad Navratri}

9. Dairy Products like Milk and Curd

A glass of milk every day during Navratri should be a must in your fasting diet. You can also add curd as an accompaniment with kachori, puri or khichdi. Paneer or cottage is also a good option to keep your energy levels up.

10. Tea and Coffee

Beverages like tea and coffee can be sipped. But make sure you don't drink more than 2-3 cups a day as it may cause acidity and other stomach issues.