Mahashivratri 2023: 5 nutritious and delicious foods you can have during Mahashivratri vrat.

Mahashivratri is a Hindu festival celebrated annually in honor of Lord Shiva. Many Hindus observe a fast or vrat during this festival, as a form of spiritual discipline and devotion. The vrat often involves abstaining from certain foods or following dietary restrictions.

During Mahashivratri vrat, people may choose to avoid certain foods like grains, onions, and garlic, and instead consume foods like fruits, milk, and certain types of grains like Samak rice, also known as Barnyard Millet. Some people may also choose to consume only water during the fast, while others may have only one meal in the day.

Fasting during Mahashivratri is believed to help purify the mind and body, and is considered an act of penance and devotion to Lord Shiva. The vrat is often observed by both men and women of all ages, and is an important part of the festival.

Here are five foods that you can have while observing Mahashivratri vrat:

Sabudana Khichdi - Sabudana khichdi is a popular Indian dish made with tapioca pearls, also known as sabudana, peanuts, potatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices. It is a popular fasting food during Hindu festivals.

To make sabudana khichdi, the tapioca pearls are soaked in water for several hours until they become soft and translucent. The soaked sabudana is then stir-fried with peanuts, boiled potatoes, and spices like cumin seeds, green chilies, and curry leaves.

Sabudana khichdi is a light and flavorful dish that is easy to digest, making it a perfect food to have during fasting. It is often served with sweetened yogurt or green chutney and is enjoyed as a breakfast, lunch or dinner dish. Sabudana khichdi is a popular dish in Maharashtra, but it is enjoyed across the country during fasting periods.

Fruit Salad - Fruit salad is a refreshing and healthy dish made with a variety of fresh fruits. It is a popular dish to have during fasting periods.

To make fruit salad, a variety of fruits are washed, peeled, and chopped into bite-sized pieces. The chopped fruits are then mixed together in a bowl and chilled in the refrigerator. Some people may also add a dressing made from honey, lime juice, and mint leaves to add a zesty flavor to the fruit salad.

Fruit salad is a nutritious and tasty dish that provides essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It is a great option for those observing a fast, as it is light and easy to digest. The variety of fruits used in the salad can be customized to individual tastes and availability, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Lauki Ki Kheer - Lauki ki kheer is a popular dessert made with bottle gourd, milk, and sweeteners like jaggery or sugar. It is a popular dish to have during fasting periods.

To make lauki ki kheer, grated bottle gourd is simmered in milk until it is cooked and soft. Sweeteners like jaggery or sugar are then added to the mixture, along with aromatic spices like cardamom and saffron. The kheer is then cooled and served chilled.

Lauki ki kheer is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great option for those observing a fast, as it is filling and easy to digest. The sweetness of the dish can be adjusted based on individual preferences, making it a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Samak Rice Pilaf - Samak rice pilaf, also known as barnyard millet pilaf, is a delicious and healthy dish made with samak rice, vegetables, and aromatic spices. It is a popular dish to have during fasting periods.

To make samak rice pilaf, the samak rice is first rinsed and soaked for a few hours. Then, it is cooked with vegetables like carrots, beans, peas, and tomatoes, and seasoned with a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and black pepper. The pilaf is cooked in ghee or oil, giving it a rich and nutty flavor.

Samak rice pilaf is a nutritious and filling dish that provides essential nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great option for those observing a fast, as it is easy to digest and provides sustained energy. The flavor of the dish can be adjusted based on individual preferences, making it a versatile and customizable dish that can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Sweet Potato Chaat - Sweet potato chaat is a delicious and nutritious snack made with sweet potatoes, spices, and chutneys. It is a popular dish to have during fasting periods.

To make sweet potato chaat, sweet potatoes are boiled, peeled, and chopped into small pieces. The sweet potato pieces are then mixed with a blend of spices like cumin, chaat masala, and chili powder, and drizzled with sweet and tangy chutneys like tamarind and mint. The chaat is garnished with fresh herbs like coriander and served with crunchy sev or boondi.

Sweet potato chaat is a healthy and flavorful snack that provides essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Sweet potatoes are also rich in antioxidants and have a low glycemic index, making them a great option for those with diabetes. The spices and chutneys used in the chaat provide a burst of flavor and make it a satisfying and filling snack.

Remember to consult with a qualified nutritionist or medical professional before starting any dietary restrictions or fasting, to ensure that your body's nutritional needs are being met.