Kofta
During Hindu fasting days like Navratri, Ekadashi, or Shivratri, finding meals that are both tasty and allowed under fasting rules can be a challenge. Sabudana (tapioca pearls) is one of the most popular vrat ingredients, known for its light texture and energy-boosting properties. While sabudana khichdi and vadas are common, Sabudana Kofta offers a delicious twist that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Let’s explore how you can prepare this delightful dish at home during your next fasting day.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sabudana (tapioca pearls)
- 2 medium-sized boiled potatoes
- 1/2 cup crushed roasted peanuts
- 1-2 green chilies (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp grated ginger (optional)
- Rock salt (sendha namak) to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
- Few chopped coriander leaves (optional)
- Oil for deep frying
Preparation Steps:
1. Soaking Sabudana:
Start by rinsing the sabudana thoroughly under running water 2-3 times to remove excess starch. Then soak them in just enough water to cover the pearls. Let it rest for 4-5 hours or overnight. After soaking, the pearls should be soft and not sticky. Press one between your fingers it should mash easily.
2. Mixing Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the soaked sabudana, mashed boiled potatoes, crushed peanuts, green chilies, ginger, black pepper, and rock salt. Mix well to form a smooth, non-sticky mixture. You can also add chopped coriander if allowed during your fast.
3. Shaping the Koftas:
Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into round koftas or oval-shaped balls. Make sure they are compact so they don’t break while frying.
4. Deep Frying:
Heat oil in a deep pan or kadhai over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently drop in the koftas. Fry in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. Avoid overcrowding the pan, and flip them carefully to ensure even cooking.
5. Serving:
Remove the koftas on a tissue-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with vrat-friendly green chutney or plain curd. These koftas are not just perfect for fasting, but also great as evening snacks.
Tips for Best Results:
- Do not add too much water while soaking sabudana, or they’ll become sticky.
- Roasted peanuts add crunch and enhance the flavor don’t skip them.
- If the mixture feels too wet, add a little kuttu (buckwheat) or singhara (water chestnut) flour for binding.
Sabudana Kofta is a wholesome and satisfying recipe you can enjoy guilt-free during fasting days. Packed with nutrients and easy to digest, it brings a flavorful change to your usual vrat meals. Try this crispy, golden delight next time you’re fasting, and it might just become your favorite vrat-time indulgence!
