Sama rice cutlets, coconut latte, flax seeds chivda: Guilt-free platter for Navratri – Times of India

This Navratri, indulge in guilt-free delights with an assortment of nourishing foods and beverages. Instead of deep fried sabudana vadas, one can opt for sama ricecutlets, crafted from wholesome barnyard millet. “Being rich in fibre, sama rice gives you a feeling of fullness. It is a healthy choice to go with, it helps you remain active and provides energy too during fasting,” says health guru and life coach Mickey Mehta.One can even delight in acoconut latte, a creamy and dairy-free creation featuring the natural sweetness of coconut milk. For satisfying crunch and nutrition, savour makhana and flax seeds chivda, keeping cravings at bay. And quench your thirst with a refreshing ginger and pineapple cooler, aligned with fasting guidelines.

Sama rice cutlets:

Sama rice cutlets are a great addition to a Navratri platter. Made from sama rice, also known as barnyard millet, these cutlets align well with fasting traditions in India, especially during festivals like Navratri. Sama rice is a nutritious grain, rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals. When combined with herbs, spices, and mashed potatoes, these cutlets provide essential nutrients to sustain energy levels during fasting. Sama rice cutlets can be seasoned with a variety of permissible Navratri ingredients such as sweet potatoes, purple yam, ginger, cumin seeds, rock salt (sendha namak), black pepper, green chillies, coriander and lemon juice. To keep them guilt-free, it is advisable to use minimal oil and salt while opting for healthier cooking methods. Fasting cutlets need not be deep-fried; they can be easily pan-roasted in ghee for a healthier alternative

Coconut latte:

Coconut milk is a common ingredient in coconut lattes and is typically allowed during Navratri fasting. It is plant-based and provides a creamy texture without the use of dairy products. It is also a good source of healthy fats and has a naturally sweet flavour. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium and iron, which can help provide essential nutrients during fasting. Mickey Mehta, health guru, says, “Coconut milk serves as the base for coconut lattes, making it an excellent choice for Navratri fasting due to its plant-based and dairy-free nature. Many individuals avoid dairy products during this time, making coconut milk a suitable substitute. Its natural sweetness can help satisfy sweet cravings without the need for refined sweeteners.”

Makhana, flax seeds chivda:

The protein and fibre content in makhana and flax seeds can help keep you feeling full and satisfied during fasting, preventing excessive snacking on less healthy options. Makhana adds a satisfying crunch to the chivda, enhancing its texture. The combination of makhana and flax seeds offers a unique nutty flavour that can be quite appealing. Makhana and flax seeds chivda is the ultimate low-calorie snack, and it has got the protein game on! When you are snacking on this, you are giving your body that turbo-charged energy boost it craves. It is like your own personal energy party! Plus, munching on these goodies makes you feel as light as a feather, perfect for garba during Navratri. And when it comes to keeping it healthy, this snack is all about that minimal-oil lifestyle. It is like the superhero of snacks, swooping in to save the day with its low-calorie and high-protein content. So, you can keep those garba moves on point and dominate the dance floor with the utmost ease and energy. It is a win-win situation for your taste and your health goals.

Ginger and pineapple cooler:

Ginger and pineapple are typically allowed during Navratri fasting, making this cooler compliant with fasting guidelines. Pineapple contains high water content, which helps keep you hydrated, especially important during fasting when you may not be drinking as much water as usual. It is a great addition to a Navratri platter. Ginger and pineapple are like the garba duo for Navratri. Ginger is known for its digestive benefits. Meanwhile, pineapple satisfies cravings with its natural sweetness and packs a nutrient punch and keeps you well-hydrated during fasting hours, ensuring you stay refreshed and energised. These two ingredients aren’t just additions; they are fasting buddies, enhancing the garba energy by adding flavour, comfort and nutrition during Navratri.

– Inputs by chef Aanal Kotak