Navratri is one of the most popular and significant Hindu festivals. Traditionally celebrated with fasting, devotions, and a host of special foods, Navratri is now recognized by millions of people around the world. While fasting is a central part of the Navratri celebration, it’s still possible to enjoy flavorful, nutritious meals during the festival. International Fresh Market, a top Indian grocery store, will outline a few essential spices and key ingredients you need to prepare fasting-friendly dishes for Navratri at home.
Fasting-Friendly Flours and Grains
Rajgira flour, also known as amaranth flour, is a gluten-free flour often used in Navratri dishes. It is popularly used in pancakes, laddoos, and Rajgira parathas, but it can be substituted in most Indian dishes that call for regular flour. Singhara, or water chestnut flour, is used as a flour substitute during fasting celebrations, with some even using the ingredient as a natural health remedy for conditions like asthma.
Sabudana, made from tapioca pearls, is a staple grain used in Navratri dishes. It is commonly used in dishes like vadas and kheer and can be found in most Indian grocery stores. Whatever kind of flour you select for your celebration, be sure to transport it carefully to avoid damage to the packaging, and store it in a cool, dry place in your home to preserve quality.
Essential Spices for Fasting Dishes
There are many delicious spices used in Indian dishes. Cumin is probably one of the most popular. It is commonly used in tempering for Sabudana khichdi or as a seasoning for yogurt-based dishes. Rock salt, or sendha namak, is the only salt permitted for consumption during fasting. It is unrefined salt consisting primarily of sodium chloride and can have a slightly earthier flavor than table salt.
Black pepper is another staple in fasting dishes. It can add a “kick” to meals and imparts a mild heat that most palates can tolerate well. You’ll find black pepper added to many yogurt dishes, fruit chaat, and Sabudana khichdi. Cardamom is a spice often used in sweet fasting dishes and beverages. Its mild, pleasant aroma makes it perfect for adding to hot teas and fruit-based desserts.
Fasting-Friendly Vegetables and Fruits
Many fruits and vegetables are fasting-friendly. Potatoes are versatile and filling, with a mild flavor that lends itself well to dishes like aloo ki sabzi, vrat ke aloo, and aloo tikki. Sweet potatoes are the sweeter version of a standard potato, with more nutritional benefits. Try making simple sweet potato fries or even roasted sweet potatoes for a fuss-free side dish with a lot of flavor.
Pumpkin is another excellent option. From pumpkin raita to pumpkin halwa, this mild fruit easily picks up the flavor of any spices added to it, making it perfect for savory or sweet dishes. Of course, raw fruit is one of the healthiest ways to snack during fasting celebrations. Consider snacking on bananas or apple slices, or add fresh fruit to a nutritious smoothie for a sweet treat with antioxidants and vitamins.
Dairy Products and Fats
There’s still room for dairy products during Navratri. Ghee, or clarified butter, is a healthy fat that adds rich, full flavor to halwa or puris, while yogurt can help cool and balance spicy dishes. Paneer, a non-melting cheese made from cow or buffalo milk, is a protein-rich dairy product that is ideal for snacking or in dishes like paneer kheer.
Visit International Fresh Market for Indian Grocery Staples
Whether celebrating Navratri for the first time or the fiftieth, International Fresh Market has everything you need for fasting-friendly, flavorful dishes. Stock up at our Indian grocery store and enjoy a fulfilling and joyous Navratri!
