Introduction: During the auspicious month of Sawan, many people across the country observe vrat, or fasting, to seek blessings from Lord Shiva for peace and prosperity. Vrat involves specific dietary restrictions, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy delicious and interesting dishes. Makhana, also known as fox nuts, is a versatile and vrat-friendly ingredient widely used in Sawan special recipes. From snacks to main courses to desserts, makhana can be used to prepare a variety of dishes. Let’s explore six mouthwatering makhana recipes that you can cook and savor with your family during this Sawan.
1. Crunchy Makhana Masala
Prepare a delightful Makhana Masala by dry roasting makhana in ghee until they become crispy. Toss them with vrat-friendly spices like rock salt, roasted cumin powder, black pepper, and a pinch of red chilli powder for a hint of heat. You can also add roasted almonds and cashew nuts to enhance the nutritional value of this healthy and filling snack. It’s perfect for munching on during fasting days.
2. Comforting Makhana Khichdi
Enjoy the comforting Makhana Khichdi for lunch or dinner during Sawan vrat. In a pressure cooker, sauté cumin seeds, grated ginger, and green chillies in ghee. Add soaked sabudana and roasted makhana along with water, and cook until the khichdi reaches a soft and fluffy texture. Season with rock salt and garnish with chopped coriander leaves for a one-pot meal that’s both healthy and delicious.
3. Refreshing Makhana Raita
Wondering what to serve with vrat waale kuttu parathe or khichdi? Makhana raita is the perfect quick fix and helps you stay cool during Sawan vrat with its refreshing taste. Crush the roasted makhana into small pieces and add them to whisked curd. Season with rock salt, roasted cumin powder, and chopped fresh mint leaves. This creamy raita complements any vrat meal, from tikkis to parathas.
4. Hearty Makhane ki Sabji
For a satiating vrat meal, prepare a hearty Makhana Curry that goes well with rice and rotis. Roast the fox nuts in ghee and prepare a light gravy with tomatoes, ginger, green chillies, and spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Add a ghee-based jeera tadka, and a couple of minutes before turning off the flame, add the makhane. Garnish with a pinch of garam masala and dhaniya leaves to get a delicious sabji.
5. Creamy Makhana Kheer
Indulge in the best dessert option during Sawan vrat – the creamy Makhana Kheer made with either sugar or jaggery. Simmer makhana in milk until they become soft and tender. Add powdered jaggery or sugar and stir until it dissolves completely. Flavor the kheer with crushed cardamom and garnish with chopped nuts of your choice. Best served chilled, this kheer can be the perfect end to your Sawan dinner.
6. Delicious Makhana Tikki
When you need breakfast or snack ideas during Sawan, try these delightful Makhana Tikkis. Soak the makhane until they become soft, then mash them along with boiled potatoes and finely grated ginger. Add red chilli powder and cumin powder, shape them into balls, and flatten them with your palms. Shallow fry in ghee until the tikkis turn golden brown. These tikkis will surely become your fasting favorite!
Conclusion
This Sawan, make your vrat meals interesting and delicious with these six delectable makhana recipes. From crunchy snacks to comforting khichdi and creamy desserts, makhana proves to be a versatile and vrat-friendly ingredient that adds both taste and nutrition to your fasting days. Enjoy these dishes with your family and make the most of this auspicious month while seeking blessings and praying for peace and prosperity.
