6 Nutritious Alternatives To Sabudana To Keep Your Navratri Meals Light And Energising

Sabudana Alternatives For Navratri: Navratri is not just about devotion and festivity, but about the celebration of food, while fasting takes the centre stage. Ranging from crispy kuttu puris to sabudana khichdi, Navratri fasting foods are tasty, easy to digest as well as energising. Sabudana is a popular fasting food, but little do people know that it brings little nutrition to the body. While it is preferred during vrat for the ease of digestion and instant energy it provides, sabudana or tapioca pearls cannot be the fasting food option for nine days. There are several alternatives to sabudana that keep the energy levels stable and provide essential nutrients like proteins, fibres and minerals to the body.

Why Sabudana Is 'Not-So-Healthy' Option For Navratri Fasts?

Although sabudana offers energy, it is low in overall nutrition. It has pure starch and has very little or no fibre, protein and good fats. Eating sabudana can spike blood sugar levels. Moreover, as it is mainly carbohydrates, sabudana provides short-term energy and leaves the body deprived of nutrients. During long fasting days, like Navratri, eating sabudana can lead to hunger pangs, fatigue and overeating later in the day.

Healthy Sabudana Alternatives For Navratri Vrat

Samak Rice (Barnyard Millet)

Also known as vrat ke chawal, samak rice is an excellent substitute for sabudana. It looks and tastes similar to rice, making it perfect for khichdi, pulao or kheer. It has high fibre content, which aids satiety and reduces unnecessary snacking. The added protein and minerals, samak rice, are lighter to digest as well as nourishing than sabudana.

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Rajgira (Amaranth)

Also known as amaranth, rajgira is packed with protein, calcium and fibre. You can use rajgira flour for rotis or parathas. You can also cook it into a porridge. They are loaded with antioxidants and amino acids, which support gradual energy release. The earthy flavour of rajgira works for both sweet and savoury dishes.

Singhara Atta (Water Chestnut Flour)

Singhara atta is naturally gluten-free and nutrient-rich. It is rich in potassium and magnesium, which help to maintain hydration and heart health. Singhara atta provides slow-releasing carbohydrates, which prevent blood sugar spikes. It can be used to make rotis, pakoras or halwa, without compromising on the nutrients.

Healthy Sabudana Substitutes For Navratri Vrat (Image Credits: Canva)

Kuttu Ka Atta (Buckwheat Flour)

This is one of the most widely used fasting flours and for all the good reasons. The high content of protein, fibre and antioxidant properties, especially rutin, which supports circulation. Prepare kuttu puris, cheelas and rotis, which help keep the stomach full and stabilise energy levels.

Sweet Potato

They are an excellent snacking option during the fasting days. They are rich in complex carbs, fibre and vitamin A, which support immunity. They are filling and nutritious and can be made into tangy chaats, roasted slices or tikkis. Unlike sabudana, sweet potatoes provide vitamins and minerals alongside energy, making them a satisfying addition to your vrat plate.

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Makhana (Fox Nuts)

This is often eaten as a snack during fasting but can also be enjoyed as the main meal. They are low in calories yet provide protein, magnesium and fibre. Roasted makhanas are light, while soaked and cooked ones can be added to kheer or curry. Their slow energy release and easy digestibility make them an ideal option.

These healthy alternatives to sabudana during fasting days, especially Navratri vrat are perfect, as they provide essential nutrients to energise the body. Besides being fulfilling, they are also light and easy to digest.