Energy will remain throughout the day during fasting in Saavan! Make these 4 tasty and healthy fruit recipes in minutes!

The holy month of Saavan is the time of devotion and worship of Lord Shiva. During this period, lakhs of devotees observe fast on Monday and the entire month of Sawan. Often during fasting, due to lack of proper eating habits, the body starts feeling weakness, lethargy, dehydration or acidity. In such a situation, it is important to choose such a fruit food which is easy and quick to prepare, tastes wonderful and also gives plenty of energy to the body throughout the day.

1. Crispy Namkeen of Makhana and Peanuts (Quick Roasted Makhana Mix)

• Why is it special: Makhana (Fox Nuts) is rich in calcium and anti-oxidants, which strengthens the bones during fasting.

• Method of preparation: Heat 1 teaspoon desi ghee in a pan. Fry the makhana, peanuts and cashew-almonds on low flame till they become crisp. Mix rock salt, black pepper powder and roasted cumin powder on top and keep it in an airtight container. It is a perfect and low-calorie snack for tea time.

2. Sabudana and Sweet Potato Tikki (Sabudana Shakarkand Tikki)

• Why is it special: Sabudana contains carbohydrates which provide instant energy, while sweet potato is rich in fiber which keeps the stomach full for a long time.

• Method of preparation: Add boiled and mashed sweet potatoes, green chillies, finely chopped coriander, roasted peanut powder and rock salt to the soaked sago. Give the shape of small kebabs or tikkis and add some ghee on the pan and fry them lightly (Crispy Shallow Fry). Serve it with curd or green coriander-mint fruit chutney.

3. Sama Chawal Khichdi

• Why is it special: Sama or Varai rice is very light and easy to digest. It maintains energy throughout the day without making the stomach heavy.

• Method of preparation: Heat ghee in a cooker or pan. Add cumin seeds, green chillies and curry leaves in it. Now add small chopped potatoes, rock salt and washed sama rice and fry for 2 minutes. Add water as per requirement and cook for 1-2 whistles. While serving, add lemon juice and green coriander on top.

4. Kuttu and Lauki Cheela

• Why is it special: Buckwheat has a hot nature, hence adding grated bottle gourd to it makes it digestible, nutritious and cool for the stomach.

• Method of preparation: Prepare a thick batter by mixing grated bottle gourd, a little curd, rock salt, black pepper and water in buckwheat flour. Spread the batter on a non-stick pan using light ghee and cook till it turns golden from both the sides.

3 health tips to keep in mind during fasting:

• Do not let there be shortage of water: Keep drinking enough water, coconut water, lassi or lemon water throughout the day so that the body remains hydrated.

• Avoid excessive fried foods: Eating too much buckwheat or fried sago can cause acidity, so give preference to roasted or shallow-fried fruits.

• Consume fresh fruits: Fruits like apple, banana, pomegranate and papaya keep the digestive system healthy.