Sawan
The month of Sawan brings with it a sense of devotion, purity, and mindful eating. Fasting during this time doesn’t mean you have to compromise on taste. In fact, with the right ingredients and a little creativity, you can prepare mouthwatering dishes that are both satisfying and spiritual. Here are five new and delicious vrat-friendly recipes to try this Sawan.
1. Shakarkandi Chaat (Sweet Potato Chaat)
Sweet potatoes are a great alternative to regular potatoes during fasting. Boil and dice sweet potatoes. In a bowl, mix with chopped cucumber, sendha namak, black pepper, lemon juice, and a touch of honey. Garnish with roasted peanuts and fresh coriander. It’s tangy, sweet, and perfect for an evening snack.
2. Singhare ke Dhokle (Water Chestnut Flour Steamed Cake)
Give a twist to your fasting menu with these soft and fluffy vrat-friendly dhoklas. Mix singhara atta (water chestnut flour) with curd, a little water, ginger paste, and sendha namak. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes. Add fruit salt or baking soda, pour into a greased pan, and steam for 15–20 minutes. Temper with cumin seeds and green chilies in ghee. Serve warm.
3. Paneer Tikki (Fasting Cottage Cheese Patties)
Mash paneer with boiled potatoes, sendha namak, black pepper, and chopped coriander. Add a little arrowroot powder for binding. Shape into small tikkis and shallow fry in ghee. These are crispy on the outside and melt-in-the-mouth inside. Serve with mint yogurt dip.
4. Vrat Wale Moongphali Aloo (Peanut Potato Stir Fry)
This quick stir-fry combines the richness of peanuts with the comfort of potatoes. Heat ghee in a pan, add cumin seeds, chopped green chilies, and boiled diced potatoes. Add crushed roasted peanuts, sendha namak, and a dash of lemon juice. Cook for 5–7 minutes. It’s crunchy, nutty, and full of flavor.
5. Makhana Malai Kheer (Fox Nut Creamy Pudding)
A delightful dessert made with roasted makhana (fox nuts), milk, and a touch of saffron. Roast makhana in ghee until crisp, then crush lightly. Boil milk and add the crushed makhana. Simmer until thick, then sweeten with jaggery or sugar. Add cardamom and a few chopped almonds. Serve chilled for a divine sweet treat.
Fasting during Sawan is not just about abstaining from certain foods, it’s about choosing nourishment that aligns with your spiritual journey. These new, flavorful recipes will keep your palate happy while staying true to the essence of the month. Try one each day and bring variety, taste, and tradition together on your plate.
