In India, we are always hopping from one festival to another. The season of Spring is especially inundated with many special festivals, for which we do not mind waking up a little early too. After Basant Panchami, it is time to gear up for the Mahashivratri that falls on 1st March 2022 this year, then of course, on 19th March we have Holi. Mahashivratri is a Hindu festival celebrated in honour of Lord Shiva. The literal translation of Mahashivratri is ‘the great night of the Shiva’.
On this day, devotees flock to the temple to pay their obeisance to Lord Shiva. They also carry some flowers, fruits, milk and sweets to offer to the deity. Some devotees also observe a day-long fast, in which they either refrain from food and water altogether (nirjala vrat) or consume light meals mostly comprising of fruits, milk and light, vegetarian ingredients without any cereals or grains. Even root vegetables are avoided in this kind of fast, only Satvik food is preferred. So, which all snacks can you prepare for Mahashivratri, here are some ideas that will definitely come in handy.
Falhari Dhokla
Dhokla fans, we found a recipe that can help you enjoy your favourite snack even during fasting. The batter here is made with sama rice, beaten curd, water and mild spices, which are then steamed till perfection.
Falhari Shakarkand Samosa
Samosa is a triangular, fried pastry where the outer covering is made with maida and the inside filling is of spicy potatoes. A lot of things about a typical samosa may not work in your Shivratri vrat, but you can always give it a spin. This fried samosa made with sweet potatoes, is one fine example.
Sabudana Khichdi
This light khichdi made with spongy, chunky tapioca pearls is something you should try soon whether fasting or not. The tapioca balls obtain a lovely texture, when they are soaked. Toss them with curry leaves, potatoes, rock salt, peanuts for a perfect non-sticky, delightful khichdi that you can also have for snack, because it is so light.
Sabudana Tikki:
This crispy, croquette-like dish is made with soaked tapioca pearls (sabudana), boiled potatoes, black pepper, cumin and rock salt. Crisp from outside, soft from inside, this tikki is sure to impress everyone around.
Roasted Makhana Namkeen:
Something to munch on when the hunger pangs are getting a bit too intolerable. This home-made namkeen packs the goodness of foxnuts that are roasted with ghee, almonds, cashew nuts, pistachios, black pepper powder and rock salt.
