Maha Shivratri is a Hindu festival honoring Lord Shiva, one of Hinduism’s primary deities. According to the Hindu lunar calendar, it usually occurs in February or March. During this auspicious day, devotees fast (vrat) as a sign of reverence and penance, praying to Lord Shiva for prosperity, well-being, and spiritual progress.
When fasting during Maha Shivratri, people avoid eating grains, pulses, and some vegetables. Instead, they choose vrat-friendly meals, which are said to be clean and beneficial to spiritual pursuits. These foods frequently include fruits, nuts, dairy products, and certain grains such as amaranth, water chestnut flour, and buckwheat flour.
Preparing vrat-friendly dishes at home helps adherents to follow their dietary restrictions while also enjoying tasty and healthy meals. These dishes are designed to adhere to the fast’s restrictions and may use foods that are considered allowed by religious groups.
Vrat-friendly recipes commonly prepared during Maha Shivratri:
- Sabudana Khichdi: This dish is made from soaked tapioca pearls (sago) sautéed with potatoes, peanuts, and spices. It is a popular fasting recipe due to its simplicity and delicious taste.
- Singhare ke Atte ka Halwa: A dessert made from water chestnut flour, ghee (clarified butter), sugar, and nuts. It is a rich and indulgent treat enjoyed during fasting periods.
- Kuttu ki Puri: Puri (deep-fried bread) made from buckwheat flour (kuttu ka atta), often served with potato curry or yogurt during fasting days.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing and healthy option consisting of various fruits like bananas, apples, pomegranates, and grapes, tossed together with a dash of lemon juice and honey.
- Makhana (Fox Nuts) Snacks: Roasted makhana seasoned with rock salt, pepper, and other spices make for a crunchy and satisfying snack option during fasting.
- Aloo Jeera: Simple yet flavorful, this dish features boiled potatoes sautéed with cumin seeds, green chilies, and fresh coriander leaves.
- Coconut Chutney: A versatile accompaniment made from grated coconut, green chilies, ginger, and yogurt, often served with vrat-friendly snacks like sabudana vada or dosa made from buckwheat flour.
