Navratri is a time of devotion, fasting, and cleansing, both spiritually and physically. During these nine auspicious days, people observe a sattvik diet, avoiding grains, onion, garlic, and processed foods. If you’re looking for budget-friendly yet delicious food options for Navratri 2025, here’s a curated list of practical and easy-to-make dishes that will keep you full and energized.
1. Sabudana Khichdi: The Ultimate Fasting Meal
Sabudana (tapioca pearls) is rich in carbohydrates, providing instant energy. It’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sabudana (soaked for 4-5 hours)
- 2 boiled potatoes (diced)
- 1 tbsp peanuts (roasted and crushed)
- 1 green chili (chopped)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- Rock salt (sendha namak) to taste
- 1 tbsp ghee
Preparation:
- Heat ghee in a pan, add cumin seeds, and let them splutter.
- Add green chilies, potatoes, and peanuts; sauté for a minute.
- Add soaked sabudana, mix well, and cook for 5-7 minutes on low flame.
- Sprinkle rock salt and mix properly. Serve hot with curd.
Cost Estimate: ₹50-₹80 (Serves 2-3)
2. Kuttu (Buckwheat) Paratha with Curd
Kuttu flour is rich in fiber and protein, making it an excellent choice for fasting. This dish is filling and easy on the stomach.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup kuttu flour
- 1 boiled potato (mashed)
- Rock salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp ghee
Preparation:
- Mix kuttu flour, mashed potato, salt, and black pepper. Knead into a soft dough using water.
- Roll out parathas carefully and cook on a heated tawa with ghee.
- Serve hot with fresh curd or mint chutney.
Cost Estimate: ₹40-₹70 (Serves 2-3)
3. Samak Rice Pulao: A Wholesome Meal
Samak rice, also known as barnyard millet, is a great alternative to regular rice and is light on digestion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup samak rice (washed and soaked)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, potatoes)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tbsp ghee
- Rock salt to taste
Preparation:
- Heat ghee in a pan, add cumin seeds, and let them crackle.
- Add chopped vegetables and sauté for a few minutes.
- Add soaked samak rice and cook with 2 cups of water. Cover and let it cook until soft.
- Serve hot with fresh curd or lemon.
Cost Estimate: ₹50-₹90 (Serves 3-4)
4. Singhara (Water Chestnut) Halwa: A Quick Dessert
Singhara atta is packed with antioxidants and is ideal for making a light dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup singhara atta
- 3 tbsp ghee
- ½ cup jaggery (or sugar)
- 2 cups milk
- Chopped nuts (optional)
Preparation:
- Heat ghee in a pan and roast singhara atta until aromatic.
- Add warm milk gradually while stirring continuously.
- Mix in jaggery and cook until halwa thickens.
- Garnish with chopped nuts and serve warm.
Cost Estimate: ₹60-₹100 (Serves 3-4)
5. Makhana (Fox Nuts) Roasted Snack
Makhana is an excellent low-calorie and crunchy fasting snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup makhana
- 1 tsp ghee
- Rock salt & black pepper
Preparation:
- Heat ghee in a pan, add makhana, and roast for 5-7 minutes until crispy.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper, mix well, and store in an airtight container.
Cost Estimate: ₹50-₹80 (Serves 2-3)
Conclusion
Jai Mata Di! 🙏
