Bottle Gourd Sabudana Khichdi: A Light and Nutritious Upvas Delight

Adding bottle gourd to the traditional Sabudana Khichdi makes it even more nutritious, adding a hydrating and fiber-rich vegetable to this already energy-packed dish. Bottle gourd is light, easy to digest, and adds a subtle flavor, making this version of Sabudana Khichdi ideal for Navratri fasting.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sabudana (tapioca pearls)
• 1 medium potato, diced
• 1/2 cup bottle gourd (lauki), peeled and grated
• 1/4 cup peanuts, roasted and coarsely ground
• 1-2 green chilies, chopped (optional)
• Rock salt (sendha namak) to taste
• Ghee for cooking
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Soak the Sabudana: Rinse the sabudana under running water until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for 4-5 hours or overnight. Drain well before cooking.
2. Cook the Potatoes and Bottle Gourd: Heat ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook until they are tender and golden. Add the grated bottle gourd and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it softens.
3. Add Sabudana and Peanuts: Once the bottle gourd is cooked, add the soaked sabudana, coarsely ground peanuts, green chilies (if using), and rock salt. Stir gently to mix everything evenly.
4. Cook Until Translucent: Cook for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sabudana becomes translucent and the khichdi is fully cooked.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.

Health Benefits:

• Rich in Carbohydrates: Sabudana provides a good source of quick energy, keeping you active during fasting.
• Hydration and Fiber: Bottle gourd adds moisture and fiber, helping with digestion and keeping the body hydrated during fasts.
• Healthy Fats and Protein: Peanuts contribute healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients that make the dish more balanced and filling.
• Easy to Digest: Both sabudana and bottle gourd are light on the stomach, making this dish easy to digest and ideal for fasting.

How It Helps During Fasting:

This Sabudana Khichdi with the addition of bottle gourd offers a more hydrating and fiber-rich version of the traditional dish. Bottle gourd helps maintain hydration levels and promotes digestion, while the sabudana provides the necessary energy to keep you going. The dish is perfect for Navratri fasting, as it’s filling without being heavy and provides essential nutrients to support your body during the fast.

Enjoy this nourishing and refreshing Sabudana Khichdi with bottle gourd as part of your fasting meals!