Fasting is an integral part of various religious and wellness practices. Choosing the right food during fasts ensures sustained energy and overall well-being. One of the best fasting-friendly superfoods is Rajgira for fasting, also known as Amaranth. Rajgira is a nutrient-dense pseudo-cereal that provides essential energy, making it ideal for various fasting traditions. Packed with vital nutrients, Rajgira is not only an energy booster but also a versatile ingredient for vrat recipes.
Why Rajgira is the Best Food for Fasting
Rajgira is widely consumed during fasts due to its exceptional nutritional profile and health benefits. Here’s why it’s an ideal choice:
– Gluten-Free and Easily Digestible – Unlike wheat or rice, Rajgira is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
– Rich in Protein and Fiber – It helps keep you full longer and provides essential amino acids.
– Boosts Energy – Loaded with iron, magnesium, and phosphorus, it supports stamina during fasting.
– Aids Digestion – Its high fiber content promotes gut health, preventing bloating and indigestion.
– Versatile in Cooking – Rajgira flour, puffed Rajgira, and whole seeds can be used in multiple vrat-friendly dishes.
Fasting Rules: Is Rajgira Allowed in Fasting?
Yes, Rajgira is completely allowed in fasting because it is a pseudo-cereal and not a grain. It aligns with the principles of satvik eating, making it an excellent choice for vrat meals. It can be used in multiple forms—flour, puffed, or whole seeds—to prepare delicious fasting-friendly dishes.
Delicious & Easy Rajgira Recipes for Fasting
1. Rajgira Paratha (Flatbread)
Ingredients: 1 cup Rajgira flour, 1 boiled potato (mashed), sendha namak, 1 tsp ghee.
Method: Mix all ingredients into a dough, roll into parathas, and cook on a tawa with ghee.
2. Rajgira Kheer (Pudding)
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Rajgira, 2 cups milk, 3 tbsp jaggery, cardamom, dry fruits.
Method: Boil Rajgira in milk, add jaggery, cardamom, and dry fruits. Simmer until thick.
3. Rajgira Ladoo (Energy Balls)
Ingredients: 1 cup puffed Rajgira, 1/2 cup jaggery, 1 tbsp ghee.
Method: Melt jaggery, mix with puffed Rajgira, and shape into ladoos.
4. Rajgira Chilla (Pancake)
Ingredients: 1 cup Rajgira flour, 1/2 cup water, sendha namak, coriander, green chili (optional).
Method: Mix ingredients into a batter, pour on a tawa, and cook until golden brown.
5. Rajgira Sheero (Sweet Porridge – Gujarati Style)
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Rajgira flour, 2 tbsp ghee, 1/2 cup jaggery, 1 cup milk or water, cardamom powder, chopped nuts.
Method: Heat ghee in a pan, roast Rajgira flour until aromatic, add milk/water and stir continuously. Mix in jaggery and cardamom, then garnish with nuts.
Where to Buy High-Quality Rajgira for Fasting?
For best results, opt for organic, unprocessed Rajgira that retains its nutritional benefits. You can find Rajgira flour, seeds, and puffed Rajgira in local grocery stores or online marketplaces. Always check for purity and quality before purchasing.
FAQs About Rajgira and Fasting
Q: Can we eat Rajgira during fasting?
A: Absolutely! Rajgira is vrat-friendly and a nutritious fasting staple. It’s light on digestion yet packed with energy-boosting nutrients.
Q: Is Rajgira a grain?
A: No, Rajgira is a pseudo-cereal, which means it’s not a grain but behaves like one. This makes it acceptable for fasting.
Q: How does Rajgira benefit fasting?
A: It provides sustained energy, aids digestion, and keeps you full longer.
Q: Can Rajgira be eaten daily?
A: Yes, it is highly nutritious and beneficial beyond fasting periods.
Q: What are some quick Rajgira snacks for fasting?
A: Try Rajgira porridge, energy bars, or simply mix roasted Rajgira with nuts for a crunchy, protein-packed snack.
Conclusion
Rajgira is a nutritional powerhouse that makes fasting healthier and more enjoyable. Whether you use it in parathas, kheer, sheero, or ladoos, this superfood adds taste and nourishment to your vrat meals. Its high protein, fiber, and mineral content make it a must-have fasting ingredient that helps sustain energy levels and promotes overall well-being.