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Sabudana khichdi becomes a staple in many Indian homes during the month of sawan. Sabudana is light, easy to digest, and therefore, perfectly suited for fasting days. Traditionally made with soaked sabudana (tapioca pearls), cumin, green chillies, peanuts, and potatoes, this dish strikes a perfect balance between simplicity, nourishment and deliciousness.
But did you know there are many savoury ways to elevate this humble dish? From coconut-kissed South Indian styles to crunchy peanut-loaded versions, these ideas will make your Sawan fasting menu more exciting without breaking the vrat rules.
Spicy Masala Sabudana Khichdi
Sabudana Khichdi is often light with masalas, but if you are someone who loves bold flavours, you can try this variation. While making the khichdi, along with cumin, green chillies, and curry leaves, add freshly ground black pepper, sendha namak chaat samala, and a squeeze of lemon juice at the end. You can also toss in a handful of roasted sesame seeds for extra crunch.
Sabudana Khichdi With Coconut And Curry Leaves
If you are someone who likes to have coconut flavour in your meals and curry leaves from South Indian flavour, this variation is for you. You can add curry leaves and freshly grated coconut to the tempering of sabudana khichdi. You can also opt to use coconut oil instead of the regular refined oil. The coconut adds a subtle sweetness and creamy texture to the khichdi, while the curry leaves bring in a lovely aroma. If you want some extra crunch, sprinkle roasted cashew bits on top. It’s still vrat-friendly but gives a different taste from the traditional version.
Sabudana Khichdi With Roasted Peanuts And Makhana
This version is for those who love a crunchy texture. After making your regular khichdi, stir in a handful of coarsely crushed roasted peanuts and lightly toasted makhanas (fox nuts). The peanuts give a rich, nutty flavour, while the makhanas add a crunch and a healthy version to your khichdi. This version also keeps you full for longer hours.
Herbed Lemon Sabudana Khichdi
Give your khichdi a refreshing twist with fresh herbs and a lemony finish. To make this, use plenty of coriander leaves, mint, and a drizzle of lemon juice just before serving. You can also include a green chilli-ginger paste in the tempering for some added flavour. This version is light, zesty, and perfect for breaking your fast without feeling too heavy.
Sabudana Khichdi With Lauki (Bottle Gourd)
I bet you did not know lauki can be added to sabudana khichdi before this? To make this, sauté the lauki briefly before mixing in the soaked sabudana and then continue cooking the khichdi as you normally do. This variation not only makes the dish more nutritious but also adds moisture, helping keep the khichdi soft and non-sticky. A few curry leaves and chopped coriander make this variation even more fragrant.
What To Pair Sabudana Khichdi With
While sabudana khichdi is wholesome on its own, pairing it with the right accompaniments makes for a more balanced and satisfying fasting meal:
- Chilled Curd or Dahi: Creamy curd perfectly balances the spices and textures of the khichdi. Try a sprinkle of sendha namak and roasted cumin powder to the dahi for added flavour.
- Buttermilk (Chaas): A glass of lightly spiced chaas with rock salt and mint cools you down and aids digestion.
- Fresh Fruits: Banana slices, papaya, or apple wedges on the side add natural sweetness and a refreshing contrast.
- Aloo Raita: Boiled potatoes mixed with dahi, rock salt, and cumin powder create a filling, vrat-friendly raita.
- Coconut Water: A light, hydrating drink that pairs beautifully, especially during humid Sawan afternoons.
- Mint-Coriander Chutney (Falahari): A tangy chutney made with mint, coriander, sendha namak, and lemon juice complements the khichdi’s soft texture.
