Sabudana Tikki

Navratri fasting is a tradition followed in many Indian households. This fasting allows our body to detox , reset our digestive fire and prepare for winters ahead. It’s a complete vegetarian fast with no grains to be included in your diet. This is a great opportunity to eat all those non grains which we don’t eat that frequently. Some examples are Kuttu atta ( buckwheat flour), Singhara atta ( water chestnut flour ) and Sabudana (tapioca pearls). Also, lots of seasonal fruit !

Navratri fasts occur twice a year when seasons are changing – one during Spring season and the second one during Fall. These fasts have numerous health benefits which are backed by science too.

Fasting reduces the restlessness of mind which is helpful to connect with yourself, meditate and prayer. This along with meditation increases peace and tranquility and brings an overall feeling of harmony.

These days, many people fast because it’s like a “trend” for them and they don’t want to miss it. Most times, they do it for weight loss only. It’s true that you might lose a couple of pounds but it’s all water weight and it comes back as soon as you resume your normal diet.

Sometimes we just need to follow the traditions, sit back and enjoy all the unique foods which we rarely eat other times of the year. Traditions shouldn’t be mixed with trends. Don’t starve yourself. Just feed your mind, body and soul during these nine divine nights.

In this blog , you will find an easy recipe to make tapioca pearl patties (sabudana tikki). A delicious grain free recipe for those who are fasting and a feast for those who are not fasting. It’s relished by everyone. We make this often during Navratri and usually have it with green chutney. Since it’s a high carb food, we don’t eat it that frequently. But during fasting when we are not eating grains, it is included in some meals during the fasting so that our body gets the daily calories for day to day activities. It primarily contain starch, a simple carbohydrate that is easily digested and is also a direct source of energy. It is also a good source of iron for blood synthesis.

It is low in sodium content, practically has no cholesterol and comprises significant quantities of calcium, for strengthening bones. It also provides manganese for optimal metabolism and folate for ensuring proper DNA synthesis and cell division in all the bodily tissues.

Happy Navratri to all those celebrating.