Traditional kadhi, a comforting and tangy yogurt-based curry, is a staple in many Indian households. However, it's typically prepared with besan (chickpea flour), which is considered a grain or legume and therefore restricted during Hindu fasting periods like Navratri. The good news is that with a few simple ingredient substitutions, you can still enjoy a delicious, creamy kadhi that is entirely suitable for your fast. This special version, known as 'vrat ki kadhi' or 'fariyali kadhi', is made using permissible, gluten-free flours and rock salt.
The Problem with Traditional Kadhi During Fasts
For many religious fasts, including Navratri, certain food restrictions are observed to promote spiritual and physical cleansing. Traditional kadhi falls into the prohibited category for several key reasons:
- Besan (Chickpea Flour): This is the primary thickening agent in standard kadhi. Since chickpeas are a legume, besan is strictly avoided by those observing a strict fast.
- Regular Salt: Many fasting traditions require the use of sendha namak (rock salt) instead of common table salt, which is more processed.
- Onions and Garlic: Traditional Punjabi or other regional kadhis often include onions and garlic in the tempering, both of which are considered tamasic (energy-dampening) foods and are avoided during fasts.
How to Make a Vrat-Friendly Kadhi
Creating a fasting-compliant kadhi is straightforward and results in a dish that is equally flavorful and comforting. The key is to replace the non-permissible ingredients with their vrat-friendly counterparts. The basic steps involve creating a smooth mixture of yogurt and a fasting-approved flour, tempering with allowed spices, and simmering until it thickens.
Allowed Flours for a Fasting Kadhi
Instead of besan, you can use one of the following flours to thicken your kadhi, all of which are suitable for Navratri and other fasts:
- Rajgira Atta (Amaranth Flour): This gluten-free flour is a popular choice for fasting recipes and works beautifully as a thickening agent.
- Singhara Atta (Water Chestnut Flour): Another gluten-free option, singhara atta offers a slightly different texture and is a staple during fasts.
- Kuttu Atta (Buckwheat Flour): Kuttu is well-known for its use in fasting dishes, and a small amount can also be used to thicken a vrat-friendly kadhi.
Building the Vrat Kadhi Base
- Whisk fresh, slightly sour curd (yogurt) until smooth and lump-free.
- Add your chosen vrat-friendly flour (e.g., rajgira atta) and a few cups of water to the whisked yogurt. Continue to whisk until a smooth batter forms.
- Heat some ghee in a pan and prepare the tempering with permitted spices like cumin seeds, grated ginger, and chopped green chilies.
- Pour the yogurt and flour mixture into the pan, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Add sendha namak to taste and bring the kadhi to a simmer over a low-medium flame. Cook until it reaches your desired consistency.
Flavorful Additions and Garnishes
To enhance the taste and texture of your vrat kadhi, consider these additions:
- For Pakoras: While traditional pakoras are out, you can add small potato or raw banana patties made with fasting flours for a heartier dish.
- For Tempering: A final tempering (tadka) can be made with ghee, cumin seeds, green chilies, and curry leaves for extra flavor.
- For Garnish: Freshly chopped coriander leaves add a bright, fresh finish.
- For Texture: Adding some roasted peanuts can give a nice crunch to the kadhi.
Comparison: Traditional Kadhi vs. Vrat-Friendly Kadhi
| Feature | Traditional Kadhi | Vrat-Friendly Kadhi |
|---|---|---|
| Thickening Flour | Besan (Chickpea Flour) | Rajgira, Singhara, or Kuttu Atta |
| Salt | Regular table salt | Sendha Namak (Rock Salt) |
| Flavor Base | Onion and garlic often used | Only permitted spices like ginger and green chilies |
| Permissibility in Fast | No | Yes, widely considered falahari |
| Pakoras | Made with besan | Made with allowed flours and vegetables |
| Texture | Generally thick and creamy | Can be slightly thinner or thicker depending on the flour and cook time |
| Associated Dish | Kadhi Chawal | Sama Rice Khichdi or Rajgira Puri |
Conclusion: Enjoy a Delicious Fasting Kadhi
Ultimately, the answer to 'can kadhi be eaten in fast?' is a resounding yes, provided you make the necessary adjustments to follow traditional fasting rules. By swapping besan for approved flours like rajgira or singhara, using rock salt instead of table salt, and omitting restricted ingredients, you can prepare a comforting and nutritious vrat-friendly kadhi. It’s a perfect example of how culinary traditions adapt to meet devotional needs without sacrificing flavor or authenticity. Enjoy this light and delicious meal with other fasting dishes and make your spiritual journey a delicious one. For more information on fasting practices and allowed foods, authoritative resources like Medanta's guide on Navratri fasting can be helpful.
