Navratri has begun and devotees leave no stone turned to seek the blessings of Goddess Durga by observing fasts, performing rituals and preparing sumptuous delicacies as an offering for bhog. But fasting can be a challenge for people with diabetes because ‘what to eat’ and ‘what to avoid’ turns out to be the most concerning question, especially when you are following Navratri fasts. Well, here are some simple yet delicious delicacies that can be easily made at home, too, without sugar. So, follow us through these easy recipes and make the most of this festive season.
Coconut Ladoo
These delightful ladoos are made with fresh grated coconut, almond flour, and stevia for sweetness. Simply mix the ingredients, roll them into small balls, and refrigerate. These ladoos are a mix of taste and health and help in providing satiety.
Almond and Date Energy Balls
Loaded with the goodness of protein and healthy fats, these energy balls are made by combining soaked almonds and pitted dates. To make these balls, just blend together all the ingredients, roll small bite-sized balls, and refrigerate. These bites are great for a quick energy boost and can curb sweet cravings.
Sabudana Kheer
Sabudana Kheer is a creamy sweet treat, which can be prepared by cooking soaked sabudana in unsweetened almond milk. Sweetened with cardamom and stevia/jaggery, this sweet treat is perfect for a wholesome meal. Garnish with nuts for added texture. It makes for a comforting sweet dish for vrat.
Quinoa Kheer
Quinoa is one of those rare millets that can be relished during the vrat feast. Made by cooking quinoa in milk along with nuts, dry fruits, jaggery and cardamom powder. This dessert is high in protein and low in calories. You can also use cinnamon powder to add some extra sweetness to the dish. Simmer until thickened and serve warm, garnished with nuts.
Banana Barfi
To make this healthy sweet treat, blend in bananas with some dates and peanuts. Add in some singhare ka atta after dry roasting, along with chopped nuts. Set this mixture in a tray, cut in desired shapes, and enjoy!
Kesar Nariyal Kheer
Simmer coconut milk with saffron, cardamom, and stevia for an aromatic and creamy kheer. Just thicken it to desired consistency and serve chilled, and top it with nuts and dry fruits.
Ragi Halwa
Prepare a healthy halwa using ragi flour cooked in water or almond milk, sweetened with stevia and flavored with cardamom. This dish is rich in fiber and provides sustained energy, making it a fantastic option during fasting.
Chia Seed Barfi
To cook this barfi, make a blend of freshly grated coconut, soaked chia seeds, milk and honey. Transfer this thick paste to a tray and let it set in a refrigerator. Take it out and cut it into desired shapes, and enjoy!