Navratri is more than just a festival—it’s a time to reconnect with tradition, rejuvenate our bodies, and celebrate with flavors that are both nourishing and festive. For most, fasting is as much about spiritual cleansing as it is about discovering creative, wholesome recipes that provide sustained energy while following satvik guidelines.
One iconic snack that graces almost every vrat kitchen is Vrat Wali Namkeen.** Made from makhana, crunchy fried sabudana, and a medley of roasted nuts and seeds, this trail mix-style snack is the perfect companion for fasting days. It’s easy to make in big batches, stores well, and is loaded with nourishment, protein, and healthy fats to help you power through your fast.
Why Make Vrat Wali Namkeen at Home?
During Navratri, food is not just about satisfying hunger—it’s about purity, simplicity, and health. By roasting makhana and nuts yourself and choosing the best ingredients, you control the quality, flavor, and nutrition of your namkeen.
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Vrat Wali Namkeen
Ingredients
– 1 cup roasted makhana (foxnuts)
– 1/2 cup fried sabudana (sago pearls)
– 1/2 cup roasted nuts & dry fruits (almonds, cashews, raisins, coconut flakes)
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder
– 1 teaspoon sendha namak (rock salt), or to taste
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. **Roast the Makhana:**
Heat a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai on low flame. Add the makhana. Dry roast, stirring frequently, until crisp and light golden. Remove and keep aside.
2. **Roast the Nuts & Peanuts:**
In the same pan, dry roast almonds, cashews, raisins, coconut flakes, and peanuts separately until fragrant and just golden. Avoid burning. Set aside with the makhana.
3. **Fry the Sabudana:**
Heat oil in a pan. Once hot, add sabudana pearls in batches. Fry until they puff up and turn crisp. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
4. **Mix Everything:**
In a large bowl, combine roasted makhana, fried sabudana, all roasted nuts and dry fruits, and peanuts. Sprinkle sendha namak and black pepper powder and toss well to coat.
Let the mixture cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container. This namkeen can be enjoyed all nine days of Navratri!
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Tips & Variations for Vrat Wali Namkeen
– Dry roasting ensures a light, guilt-free snack without excess oil.
– Add other fasting-friendly seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for more crunch.
– For sweetness, toss in a handful of dried figs or dates (optional).
– Always cool the snack completely before storing to retain crunch.
Serving Ideas
– Enjoy a handful during fasting to curb hunger.
– Serve with chai or sweet lassi for a balanced fasting meal.
– Pack small jars as Navratri gifts to family and friends.
This namkeen offers a tasty mix of protein, healthy fats, and quick carbs, making it ideal for fasting. Each bite is crunchy, satisfying, and packed with flavors that truly celebrate the spirit of Navratri. The recipe is flexible, allowing you to use your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
Conclusion
Add this homemade vrat wali namkeen to your Navratri snacking list—once you taste it, store-bought mixtures will never satisfy you again! It’s nutritious, simple, and totally customizable. If you try this recipe or have a family variation, share your experience in the comments below.
Stay connected for more vrat-friendly recipes, tips, and festive inspiration throughout Navratri!
THANK YOU 🙂
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