This simple and nutritious pumpkin curry is perfect for fasting periods like Navratri. Pumpkin, rich in vitamins and antioxidants, combined with the earthy flavors of cumin and turmeric, makes this dish not only delicious but also highly beneficial for overall health. The use of ghee and sendha namak (rock salt) makes it ideal for fasting days, offering a light, easy-to-digest, yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pumpkin, diced
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• Rock salt (sendha namak) to taste
• 1 tablespoon ghee
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the Ghee: In a pan, heat ghee on medium flame. Once hot, add cumin seeds and let them splutter to release their aroma.
2. Sauté the Pumpkin: Add the diced pumpkin to the pan and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to lightly brown the pumpkin.
3. Add Spices: Sprinkle turmeric powder and rock salt (sendha namak) over the pumpkin. Stir well to coat the pumpkin evenly with the spices.
4. Cook Until Tender: Cover the pan with a lid and cook on low heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the pumpkin becomes tender. Stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan.
5. Garnish and Serve: Once the pumpkin is soft and cooked, turn off the heat. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.

Health Benefits:

• Rich in Vitamins: Pumpkin is high in vitamins A and C, which boost immune function and promote healthy skin.
• Antioxidant Properties: Turmeric is well known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, helping to reduce inflammation and protect against illness.
• Easy to Digest: The simplicity of this dish, combined with the mild sweetness of pumpkin, makes it gentle on the stomach, perfect for fasting days.
• Boosts Digestion: Cumin seeds aid digestion and enhance flavor, making this dish light yet satisfying.

How It Helps During Fasting:

Pumpkin curry is a wholesome, nutrient-dense dish that is light on the stomach and provides essential vitamins and minerals to keep you nourished while fasting. Ghee adds healthy fats to support energy levels, while cumin and turmeric aid digestion and provide additional health benefits. This pumpkin curry is perfect as a main dish or a side during fasting periods, offering both taste and nutrition.

Enjoy this flavorful and healthy pumpkin curry during your fasts for a delicious and nourishing meal!