Maha Shivratri is one of the most auspicious Hindu festivals, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Many devotees observe a fast (vrat) on this day, consuming only specific sattvic foods that provide energy while keeping the body light and detoxified. If you're wondering what to eat during the Shivratri fast without breaking the rules, we've got you covered! Here are five delicious and healthy foods you can enjoy during your vrat.

Sabudana is a vrat-friendly ingredient known for its energy-boosting properties. It is rich in carbohydrates and provides sustained energy throughout the fasting period. You can prepare delicious dishes like:

Sabudana Khichdi

A tasty mix of soaked sabudana, peanuts, potatoes, and mild spices. It is light on the stomach yet provides enough energy to sustain throughout the day. To prepare it:

• Soak sabudana for at least 4-5 hours or overnight.

• Cook it with cumin seeds, boiled potatoes, and roasted peanuts.

• Garnish with fresh coriander and a dash of lemon juice for enhanced flavor.

Sabudana Kheer

A sweet and creamy dessert made with milk, sugar, and cardamom. It is an ideal vrat-friendly sweet dish that satisfies your cravings. To make sabudana kheer:

• Boil milk and add soaked sabudana.

• Stir continuously until the mixture thickens.

• Add jaggery or sugar along with cardamom powder and chopped nuts.

Sabudana Vada

Crispy, deep-fried fritters made with sabudana, boiled potatoes, and minimal spices. These are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. To prepare:

• Mash boiled potatoes and mix them with soaked sabudana, crushed peanuts, and rock salt.

• Shape them into small patties and deep fry until golden brown.

Sabudana is a versatile ingredient that can be turned into several dishes, making it a perfect food for fasting.

Makhana is a superfood loaded with protein and antioxidants, making it a great fasting snack. It is light, nutritious, and easy to digest. It also helps keep hunger pangs at bay while maintaining energy levels.

Roasted Makhana

A simple yet tasty snack. Lightly roast makhana in ghee and sprinkle with rock salt and pepper. It keeps you full and provides essential nutrients.

Makhana Kheer

A creamy and nutritious dessert made with milk, jaggery, and dry fruits. To prepare:

• Lightly roast makhana and blend half of them into a coarse powder.

• Boil milk, add makhana and jaggery, and cook until thickened.

• Garnish with nuts and saffron.

Makhana Chaat

An innovative way to consume makhana. Mix roasted makhana with yogurt, pomegranate, and fasting-friendly spices for a delicious and healthy chaat.

Makhana is also rich in magnesium and calcium, supporting overall well-being during fasting.

Fresh fruits are an excellent source of hydration and essential vitamins during fasting. You can have:

Fresh Fruits

• Bananas, apples, papaya, and pomegranates are perfect for keeping you full and energized.

• A fruit salad with honey, nuts, and shredded coconut is refreshing and fulfilling.

• Watermelon and oranges help keep you hydrated.

Dry Fruits

• Almonds, cashews, raisins, and walnuts provide healthy fats and proteins.

• Dates and figs are natural sweeteners that also offer fiber and energy.

• Soaked raisins and almonds in warm milk make a great pre-fast or post-fast drink to restore energy.

Fruit Smoothies

• Blend bananas, apples, and nuts with yogurt or milk for a power-packed smoothie. It helps in sustaining energy levels during fasting hours.

Fruits are a must-have during fasting, as they provide natural sugars and hydration, keeping you refreshed.

These gluten-free flours are commonly used during fasting to make wholesome and filling dishes.

Kuttu Poori or Singhare Ki Roti

A popular vrat special, these flatbreads are either deep-fried or pan-roasted. They go well with curd and vrat-friendly sabzis like aloo curry.

Pakoras (Fritters)

Made with kuttu or singhare flour and potatoes, these are crunchy, delicious, and perfect for an evening snack. To prepare:

• Make a thick batter using kuttu or singhare flour with rock salt and water.

• Dip sliced potatoes or paneer and deep fry until golden brown.

Singhare or Kuttu Halwa

A rich dessert made with flour, ghee, jaggery, and nuts. It provides warmth and energy, making it perfect for fasting.

These flours are excellent alternatives to grains and provide long-lasting energy throughout the fast.

Dairy is a staple in vrat diets as it provides protein and essential nutrients.

Plain or Flavored Milk

A simple glass of milk provides hydration and nourishment. You can enhance it with cardamom, saffron, or nuts.

Lassi or Buttermilk

These are refreshing drinks that aid digestion and keep the body cool.

Paneer Dishes

Paneer is a great source of protein and can be enjoyed in multiple ways:

• Grilled Paneer Tikka – Marinate paneer cubes with rock salt and mild spices and grill.

• Paneer with Rock Salt – Simple yet delicious when served with vrat-friendly roti.

Yogurt-Based Dishes

Yogurt is light on the stomach and provides probiotics. Try fruit raita or blend it with honey for a quick energy boost.

Coconut Water

Apart from dairy, coconut water is another refreshing option to keep you hydrated and replenish lost electrolytes during fasting. It also provides essential minerals, preventing dehydration.

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, coconut water, and herbal teas.

• Avoid fried foods in excess to prevent sluggishness.

• Use rock salt instead of regular salt.

• Consume small meals at regular intervals to maintain energy levels.

• Avoid processed sugar; opt for jaggery or honey for natural sweetness.

• Get enough rest and avoid excessive physical exertion during fasting.

• Opt for light physical activities like yoga or meditation to stay focused and energetic.

Shivratri fasting doesn't mean compromising on taste or nutrition. With these five foods and creative recipes, you can stay energized, healthy, and spiritually connected while observing your vrat. Remember to follow the fasting guidelines and consume sattvic ingredients to make the most of this divine occasion.

Incorporate these nutritious options into your fasting plan to maintain strength and vitality throughout the day. Whether you prefer savory or sweet, there are plenty of vrat-friendly options to keep you full and satisfied.

Wishing you a blessed and fulfilling Maha Shivratri! Om Namah Shivaya!