As the festive season arrives, many people observe the ancient tradition of fasting to prove their loyalty and faith towards the almighty god by going through the pain by sacrificing taste as well as remaining thirsty and hungry.

It’s a common holy practice observed in almost every religion. This tradition is very old and fasting is observed on various occasions throughout the year. Mainly, people fast to gain god’s consciousness and get closer to God. Fasting is believed to be a moral and spiritual act. Its main aim is to purify the body and mind to acquire divine grace. It is more commonly known as “Vrata” which is a Sanskrit word which means "vow, resolve, devotion”. It is accompanied by prayers seeking good health and happiness for loved ones. But fasting doesn’t necessarily means, starving completely. It also depends majorly on the type of fast you are on and the beliefs behind it. One must make sure that before consuming anything while fasting, he/she must take a bath and offer prayers to God. Here is a list of some optional foods that people can consume while observing fasts:

1. Fruits

Fruits are believed to be one of the healthiest as well as the best food choice, which can be eaten without any terms or conditions. Some of the best choices are Bananas, Apples, Oranges, Guavas (Amrood), Pears (Nashpati), Water Chestnuts(Singada), Coconuts etc. One can eat them throughout the day. Fruits are loaded with dietary fibres which induce a feeling of fullness thus making it easier for one to fast throughout the day without consuming a lot of things.

2. Sago/Sabu Dana

One can involve dishes made from Sabu dana while fasting such as Tikki, Khichdi, Kheer, Pappad etc. They are loaded with carbohydrates or starches, and it helps to refuel the lost energy. They are also very delicious. Sabu Dana Khichdi with Dahi and Green Chutney is also one of my favourite meals, which I always eat while fasting.

3. Kuttu

Wheat/Maida/Besan isn’t allowed to eat while fasting. Kuttu is the best gluten-free option to consume during this time. One can include Chapattis/Puris prepared with Kuttu Flour to satisfy the cravings. These Chapattis are loaded with dietary fibre, protein and antioxidants. Kuttu Pakodis/Cutlets/Kebabs are also a delight to your taste buds while fasting. Don’t forget to consume Green Dhania Chutney with them to get the best taste from them.

4. Chestnut Oak Flour/Singade ka Atta

Singada is rich in minerals and vitamins. One can include Chapattis/Puris made from its flour in meals also. Singada is believed to be one of the healthy alternatives to flour during these times.

5. Lauki ki Kheer/Halwa

Might sound too boring or unpleasant to consume while fasting? Who likes Lauki? Well, the case is completely reversed with its Kheer. Try it and watch yourself fall in love with it. One of the healthiest and tastiest things that one can enjoy while fasting.

6. Nuts

Roasted Peanuts, Almonds (Badam), Makhanas(very low in calories, and loaded with calcium), Pistachios, Kajus, and Dates(Khajoor) are also a few snack options that one can include in their meals while fasting. Take 2 spoons of Peanut Oil/Soya Oil, fry them and enjoy them in your evening snacks or along with your lunch/dinner while fasting!

7. Milk/Milk Products

Drinking boiled unflavoured milk isn’t allowed while fasting but one can consume products based on it such as Kheer, Tea, Meethi Dahi, Lassi etc. Curd can be used as a base to make a delicious evening snack. Use a few spoons of normal curd and add chopped fruits to it like Apples, Bananas, Grapes etc. Add one spoon of honey and a few nuts to it and your bowl full of goodness is ready. It's light and refreshing and the chewing action will make you feel satiated for longer and prevent sudden starvings. Enjoy this lovely delight while fasting!

8. Aloo made Products

Aloo is also one of the best alternatives that one can include in their meals while fasting. Prepare Aloo ki Sabzi to add some Green Chillies to it for taste or make Tikkis and enjoy them with Curd and Green Chutney and Saunt(Sweet sauce). But these are not the only options that one can make. Aloo is believed to fit with everything. Experiment with it and make an endless number of things from it.

Don’t forget that normal salt is not allowed to eat while fasting. Eat Rock Salt/Sainda Namak to prepare all of these. Also, the use of onions/garlic is not allowed while fasting, thus refrain from using them as well.

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