From creamy Makhana Kheer to crispy Sabudana Cutlets, vrat-friendly dishes to make festive fasting healthier and more satisfying

The air is almost filled with the breath of festivities, as it all begins with Navratri and worshiping the 9 avatars of Goddess Durga. These days are marked by fasting, celebrations, and prayers among the Hindu communities across the world.

Ask anyone who fasts during Navratri what they look forward to, and the answer is rarely “the fasting”. It’s usually the food, what they would eat and how they would plan their meals of the day.

Beginning with the crisp potato tikki that vanishes from the plate in seconds, the sweet treat at the end of the day, and the warm bowl that finally ends a long, light-headed afternoon.

The trouble is that a lot of traditional vrat favourites are deep-fried. Puris, pakoras and fritters are delicious, but after a day of eating very little, a plate of heavy fried food can leave you sluggish, bloated or uncomfortable.

But then tricks like pan-toasting and air frying are now life savers.

Here are some of the most delicious zero-oil Navratri recipes to set your menu for the festive season.

Photos: Canva