Move over sabudana, Navratri is set to be nutrientpacked with these food
With Chaitra Navratri around the corner, devotees have started making preparations to observe nine days of fasting. Most would head over to stock up on sabudana (sago pearls) and potatoes, but do you know the fasting period can be made holistic with some nutrientdense, healthy alternatives?
“During Navratri, it is essential to maintain balance and nourishment for body and soul. Opting for nutrient-dense options such as amaranth, buckwheat or water chestnut flours, as well as vegetables like sweet potatoes and fruits, can help maintain balance,” says nutritionist Nupuur Patil.
Keeping that in view, Patil suggests these four alternatives to sabudana that can boost your overall wellbeing. Here’s a lowdown on their benefits.
AMARANTH (RAJGIRA)
The ancient grain is considered a powerhouse of nutrients, rich in protein, fibre, and essential vitamins and minerals. Incorporating the gluten-free grain into your fasting regimen ensures sustained energy levels and promotes muscle repair and growth. Try some new recipes this year with amranth gur laddoo, amranth chaat with pomegranate and sweet potato.
BUCKWHEAT (KUTTU KA ATTA)
This grain-like seed is packed with high-quality protein and complex carbohydrates — making it an excellent source of energy. Additionally, buckwheat contains rutin, a potent antioxidant that supports heart health and reduces inflammation. You can use buckwheat to make mix veg chila, kuttu ke gulab jamun as well as kuttu ke pakode.
WATER CHESTNUT FLOUR (SINGHARE KA ATTA)
Derived from the corms of water chestnut plants, the flour can be used as a versatile ingredient for Navratri fasting. This gluten-free flour boasts a low glycaemic index, is rich in potassium, promotes electrolyte balance, and supports nerve and muscle function. Explore its culinary potential by making laddoos, or use cooked water chestnuts to whip up a smooth basundi.
SWEET POTATOES (SHAKARKAND)
Brimming with vitamins, minerals and dietary fibre, sweet potatoes add a delightful flavour to fasting meals while providing a sustained release of energy. Loaded with betacarotene, they support vision health and bolster the immune system. You can use sweet potatoes to make a shakarkandi aur kesar ki kheer, mango bhel with sweet potatoes and sweet potatopaneer parathas.