No-Gas Fasting Special Recipes: Chaitra Navratri commences on March 19th. If you, too, are observing a fast for nine days to worship Goddess Bhagwati, you must try these 5 *falahar* (fruit-based fasting) recipes. The best part is that you won't need a gas stove to prepare them.

Chaitra Navratri falls during the summer season, making the act of fasting a bit challenging. Abstaining from food and water consumption often leads to dehydration and low energy levels in many individuals. In such a scenario, these 5 recipes can prove to be extremely beneficial for you. Amidst the ongoing shortage of cooking gas, these recipes become even more significant, as they can be prepared without the use of a gas stove.

Dry Fruit Milkshake: To find relief from the summer heat and stay energetic throughout the day, a dry fruit milkshake is the ultimate *falahar* option. It is incredibly easy to prepare. To make it, soak dates, cashews, pistachios, almonds, and fox nuts (*makhana*) in milk overnight (or for at least 3–4 hours). You may also add a pinch of saffron to the mixture. Next, blend the ingredients in a mixer grinder. Finally, pour the mixture into a glass, add a few ice cubes, and serve.

Paneer Sweets: If you find yourself craving something sweet while fasting, you can try this recipe for a paneer-based dessert. You won't need a gas stove at all to prepare this treat. To make it, take 250 grams of fresh *paneer* (cottage cheese) and cut it into cubes. Then, add some desiccated coconut powder and 2 tablespoons of milk powder, and blend the mixture. Ensure that the resulting paste does not become too runny. Next, add *jaggery* (unrefined cane sugar) to taste and a spoonful of *desi ghee* (clarified butter), and blend the mixture once more. Now, spread this paste evenly onto a plate or tray and place it in the refrigerator to set. Once set, garnish with dry fruits and serve.

Sabudana Vada: Many people love to enjoy *Sabudana Vada* (tapioca fritters) during their fasts. To prepare this dish, you can use an air fryer instead of a gas stove. This method not only requires less effort but also significantly reduces the amount of oil needed for cooking. To prepare Sabudana Vada, soak the sago pearls in water until they become soft. Then, add crushed roasted peanuts, boiled potatoes, fresh coriander leaves, green chilies, and rock salt; mix all the ingredients thoroughly. Next, shape the mixture into small patties and cook them in an air fryer.

Potato Chips: While making potato chips is typically a somewhat lengthy process, you can prepare them in just a few minutes using an air fryer—perfect for consumption during religious fasting. To do this, peel the potatoes and slice them thinly. Then, arrange the slices in the air fryer, ensuring they are separated to allow for even cooking. In a short while, your potato chips will be ready to eat.

Fruit Custard: You do not need custard powder to prepare this fasting-friendly fruit custard. To make it, simply cut your favorite seasonal fruits into small pieces and mix them in a bowl. Next, blend a banana, milk, fox nuts (makhana), peeled almonds, and cashews in a blender jar to form a smooth paste. Finally, mix this paste with the fruits and serve.

PC Social Media