Upvas Sabudana Khichdi Recipe: A Delicious and Satisfying Fasting Meal

Introduction to Upvas Sabudana Khichdi Recipe

Upvas Sabudana Khichdi is a popular and traditional Indian dish, especially made during fasting days such as Navratri, Ekadashi, and other religious observances. This dish is made with sabudana (tapioca pearls), peanuts, potatoes, and a few select spices, making it both nutritious and flavorful. It is light on the stomach yet filling, providing the energy needed during fasts. The recipe is easy to prepare, with a few simple ingredients that come together to create a dish that is loved by all.

Ingredients for Upvas Sabudana Khichdi

To prepare the perfect Upvas Sabudana Khichdi, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup sabudana (tapioca pearls)
• 1 medium-sized potato, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, coarsely ground
• 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
• 8-10 curry leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• Salt to taste (use rock salt during fasting)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped, for garnish

Preparation Method

The Upvas Sabudana Khichdi recipe involves a few key steps to ensure the perfect texture and taste. Here’s how you can make this delightful fasting dish:

1. Soaking the Sabudana:

   • Rinse the sabudana under running water until the water turns clear. This step is essential to remove excess starch from the pearls.
   • After rinsing, soak the sabudana in just enough water to cover it for about 4-5 hours or overnight. The sabudana should become soft and fluffy but not mushy.

2. Cooking the Khichdi:

   • Heat ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
   • Add the chopped green chilies and curry leaves, and sauté for a minute.
   • Add the diced potatoes and cook until they turn golden and are fully cooked.
   • Once the potatoes are done, add the soaked sabudana, coarsely ground peanuts, sugar, and salt. Mix everything well.
   • Cook on low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sabudana turns translucent and is cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
   • Turn off the heat and add lemon juice. Mix well.

3. Garnishing and Serving:

   • Garnish the Upvas Sabudana Khichdi with fresh coriander leaves.
   • Serve hot with a side of plain yogurt or vrat chutney for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Upvas Sabudana Khichdi

Making the perfect Upvas Sabudana Khichdi requires some practice, especially to achieve the right texture. Here are some tips to ensure that your khichdi turns out just right:

• Soaking Time: Ensure that the sabudana is soaked for the right amount of time. If it is under-soaked, it will remain hard and chewy. Over-soaked sabudana can become mushy, leading to a sticky khichdi.
• Rinsing Sabudana: Rinse the sabudana well before soaking to remove excess starch, which can make the khichdi sticky.
• Cooking on Low Heat: Cook the khichdi on low to medium heat to prevent the sabudana from clumping together.
• Peanut Powder: Adding coarsely ground roasted peanuts enhances the flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the khichdi.
• Rock Salt: If you are making this dish for fasting, be sure to use rock salt instead of regular table salt.

Nutritional Benefits of Upvas Sabudana Khichdi

Upvas Sabudana Khichdi is not only delicious but also offers several nutritional benefits, making it an ideal dish during fasting. Sabudana is rich in carbohydrates, which provide the necessary energy to sustain you during the fast. The peanuts add a dose of protein, while the potatoes contribute to the dish’s satiety factor. The use of ghee adds healthy fats that are essential for the body. Additionally, the spices and lemon juice used in the recipe aid digestion, ensuring that you feel light and energized throughout the day.

Variations of Upvas Sabudana Khichdi

While the traditional Upvas Sabudana Khichdi is simple and straightforward, there are several variations you can try to add a twist to the dish:

• Coconut Sabudana Khichdi: Add freshly grated coconut to the khichdi for a rich and creamy texture.
• Vegetable Sabudana Khichdi: Include vegetables like carrots, peas, and capsicum to make the dish more colorful and nutritious.
• Sweet Sabudana Khichdi: For a sweet version, skip the chilies and spices. Instead, add sugar, grated coconut, and a dash of cardamom powder.

Serving Suggestions

Upvas Sabudana Khichdi is best enjoyed hot and fresh. It pairs well with a variety of accompaniments, making it a versatile dish:

• Yogurt: Serve with plain yogurt for a cooling contrast to the spiced khichdi.
• Vrat Chutney: A side of coconut or peanut chutney adds a burst of flavor.
• Fruit Salad: For a refreshing side, serve with a fruit salad made of banana, apple, and pomegranate.

Conclusion

The Upvas Sabudana Khichdi Recipe is a delightful blend of taste and nutrition, perfect for those observing fasts. It is light, flavorful, and easy to digest, making it an ideal choice for breakfast or lunch during fasting days. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s no wonder that this dish is a favorite in many Indian households.

Whether you are fasting or simply in the mood for a light and satisfying meal, Upvas Sabudana Khichdi is a dish that you must try. Follow the recipe provided by IndianBreakfastRecipe, and enjoy this timeless fasting delight with your family and friends.