Easy Sabudana Dishes: The Sawan month holds great significance in Hinduism and is observed by offering prayers to Lord Shiva and keeping fast to seek his blessings. Sawan 2025 has already begun on July 11 and will conclude on August 9. This is considered the holiest month, where devotees only consume sattvic food. Apart from the fruits and vegetables, sabudana, also known as tapioca pearls, holds a revered place on the fasting thali. But have you wondered why sabudana is eaten during a fast? Well, sabudana is considered a fasting food, especially in Sawan, as according to Ayurveda, it is a cooling food that effectively balances the pitta dosha (heat in the body) and provides a significant energy boost.
Why Is Sabudana Eaten During A Fast?
Sabudana or tapioca pearls are eaten during a fast in Indian households, especially during festivals like Navratri, Janmashtami and Sawan. It is not included in the fasting thali just for the tradition, but for its several health benefits and culinary versatility. Also known as sago, sabudana are small pearls of starch which are commercially produced. Sabudana is rich in carbohydrates, providing a quick energy boost during long hours without food, while being light on the digestive system. Besides, they can be included in both sweet and savoury dishes, perfectly suited for satvik (pure) diets.
Benefits Of Eating Sabudana During Fast
Fasting usually involves surviving long hours without food, making it crucial to consume something that provides sustained energy. Sabudana, which primarily consists of carbohydrates, helps to keep the body energised throughout the day. Moreover, they are also a preferred fasting staple because they are light on the stomach and easily digestible. They do not cause any discomfort or bloating. Sabudana is also rich in minerals like calcium and iron and is ideal for people who follow a gluten-free diet.
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Easy Sabudana Recipes To Try In Sawan Month
Sabudana Khichdi
Sabudana Khichdi is a popular fasting dish and is made from sago pearls, which are soaked overnight to soften. The khichdi is cooked with roasted peanuts, cumin seeds, green chillies and boiled potatoes. It is flavourful as well as nutritious, making it a perfect Sawan fasting lunch.
Sabudana Vada
Tapioca pearls can be used to make crispy and delicious snacks during the Sawan months. Mix the soaked sabudana with boiled potatoes, roasted peanuts and various spices, then shape into patties. Deep fry them in the oil. Sabudana vada goes well with accompaniments like tangy tamarind chutney or spicy green chutney.
Sabudana Kheer
Sabudana kheer is a popular fasting dessert and is loved for its creamy and luscious texture made from sago pearls, milk and sugar. Soak the pearls and then cook in milk until they become soft and translucent. Sweeten it with sugar and flavour it with cardamom. Garnish the kheer with saffron strands and chopped nuts.
Sabudana Dishes For Sawan Month (Image Credits: Canva)
Sabudana Dosa
This is a unique and healthy variation of the traditional South Indian breakfast. Instead of rice, make a batter of soaked sabudana, mashed potatoes and spices. This dosa is gluten-free and packed with nutrients. Serve it hot with coconut chutney.
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Sabudana Laddoo
Sabudana laddoo is a delightful, sweet treat made from sago pearls, sugar and ghee. It is both nutritious and tasty. Powdered sugar, cardamom and nuts like cashews and almonds are also main ingredients of this laddoo. These energy balls provide a quick energy boost, making them a preferable option during Sawan fasting.