Share
Karwa Chauth is observed by married Hindu women who fast from sunrise to moonrise for the well-being and longevity of their husbands. The ritual begins early in the morning with the Sargi, a meal prepared by the mother-in-law and eaten before dawn. The Sargi thali often includes items that keep one energised through the long day ahead, such as fruits, nuts, vermicelli kheer, parathas, and savoury snacks. As people move towards lighter and more health-conscious meals, the air fryer, like one from Usha, has become a practical choice for preparing Sargi dishes that remain flavourful and filling without being greasy. The appliance helps balance traditional preferences with modern convenience, offering a way to make the meal lighter without losing its essence.
The pre-fast meal needs to provide steady energy through the day, so it should include carbohydrates, protein, and some natural fats. Using an air fryer allows one to prepare these foods with minimal oil while keeping the flavours intact. Here are a few air fryer meal ideas that blend tradition with a slightly modern method while keeping the nutritional value steady.
1. Methi Thepla Rolls
Methi thepla is a wholesome Gujarati flatbread that works well as part of the Sargi meal. The dough, prepared with whole wheat flour, fenugreek leaves, curd, and light seasoning, provides fibre and flavour. After rolling the theplas thinly, they can be brushed with very little oil and cooked in the air fryer until lightly crisp. They hold their shape well and stay soft for hours, which makes them suitable for eating before dawn. They can be rolled with a light paneer or curd filling for extra protein. The taste remains homely, and the use of the air fryer keeps the oil intake minimal while ensuring the theplas stay warm and aromatic.
2. Paneer Tikki
Paneer provides a steady release of energy and helps reduce hunger during the long fast. For this recipe, the paneer can be crumbled and mixed with grated carrot, boiled potatoes, green peas, and light masala. Shaped into small tikkis, they can be brushed with a few drops of oil and placed in the air fryer until golden. The result is a mildly crisp exterior with a soft interior that pairs well with mint chutney or curd. These tikkis are easy to digest, and they stay satisfying without feeling heavy. Since paneer is rich in protein and calcium, it adds both strength and nourishment to the Sargi platter.
3. Vermicelli Cutlets
Vermicelli or seviyan is often part of the traditional Sargi thali in the form of kheer. However, it can also be used in a savoury form for a light and filling variation. Cooked vermicelli can be mixed with finely chopped vegetables such as capsicum, carrots, and beans, along with a binding of mashed potatoes. Form small round cutlets and place them in the air fryer until they become crisp. This gives the dish a satisfying bite while using very little oil. The mild sweetness of vermicelli blends well with the vegetables, creating a balanced flavour that works well in the early hours of the morning.
4. Dry Fruit Ladoo
Dry fruits play an important role in the Sargi meal because they provide lasting energy and nutrition. Dates, almonds, and cashews can be chopped and blended with a small quantity of ghee to form the base of ladoos. Before shaping them, the mixture can be lightly warmed in the air fryer to release the natural oils and enhance the flavour. This step helps bring out a gentle toasted aroma without deep roasting. Once cooled, the mixture can be rolled into ladoos. These stay fresh for days and provide a steady energy boost without being overly sweet or rich.
If you don’t have Usha’s Air Fryer, Shop Now 
.
5. Sabudana Patties
Sabudana or tapioca pearls are another traditional fasting ingredient because they offer carbohydrates and keep one full for long hours. After soaking, they can be combined with boiled potatoes, roasted peanuts, and mild spices. Form small patties and place them in the air fryer until they turn golden. This version stays crisp without being greasy, and the mild flavour makes it suitable for early morning consumption. The texture becomes firm and pleasant without the heaviness of frying. A spoon of curd on the side helps balance the starch and makes the meal complete.
