When Shardiya Navratri begins on September 22, 2025, many across the country will observe a special fast, not just as a religious practice but as a way to detoxify the body and focus the mind. Fasting, however, doesn’t mean you have to give up on delicious and satisfying meals. Kheer, a traditional Indian pudding, is a perfect example of a dish that can be both a delightful treat and a source of energy during these nine days of devotion.Here are seven tasty and nutritious kheer recipes that are perfect for your Navratri fast, using ingredients that will keep you feeling full and energized.1. Makhana Kheer (Fox Nut Kheer)A popular choice during fasts, makhana, or fox nuts, are light yet filling.They are packed with antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. This kheer has a unique, comforting flavor and a lovely creamy texture.How to make it: Lightly roast the makhana in a little ghee until they are crispSet some aside and coarsely grind the restBoil milk, then add the ground and whole makhana, letting it simmer until the fox nuts are soft and the milk has thickened.Sweeten with sugar or jaggery and flavor with a pinch of cardamom and a few strands of saffron.2. Sabudana Kheer (Tapioca Pearl Kheer)Sabudana is a go-to ingredient during Navratri because it's a great source of carbohydrates that provide instant energy. This kheer is incredibly creamy and satisfying.How to make it: Make sure to soak the sabudana for a few hours until the pearls swell up. In a pot, bring milk to a boil, then add the soaked sabudana Cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the pearls become soft and translucent and the kheer thickens. Add sugar, crushed cardamom, and a handful of your favorite nuts like almonds and cashews.3. Lauki Kheer (Bottle Gourd Kheer)It might sound unusual, but lauki kheer is a light, refreshing, and surprisingly delicious option. Bottle gourd is hydrating and very low in calories, making it a healthy choice.How to make it: Peel and grate the lauki, then squeeze out the excess water. Sauté the grated lauki in ghee for a few minutes until it softensAdd milk and let it cook until the lauki is tender and has absorbed the flavors. Mix in your preferred sweetener and cardamom powder, and garnish with nuts before serving.4. Samak Rice Kheer (Barnyard Millet Kheer)Samak rice, or barnyard millet, is a fantastic grain substitute during Navratri fasts.It's nutritious, easy to digest, and makes for a wonderfully creamy kheer.How to make it: First, soak the samak rice for about 20-30 minutes. Bring milk to a boil and then add the drained samak rice.Cook on medium heat, stirring to prevent it from sticking, until the rice is fully cooked and the milk has thickened. Stir in sugar or jaggery syrup, cardamom powder, and some chopped nuts.5. Rajgira Kheer (Amaranth Kheer)Rajgira, or amaranth, is a powerhouse of nutrients, including protein, making it an excellent ingredient to keep your energy levels upIts kheer has a distinct, slightly nutty flavor.How to make it: Gently simmer milk and add the rajgira grains. Cook until the grains are soft and the kheer has thickened. Flavor it with cardamom and your choice of sweetener for a wholesome dessert6. Fruit KheerFor a lighter and more refreshing take, a fruit kheer can be a wonderful option. It combines the creaminess of milk with the natural sweetness and vitamins of fresh fruits.How to make it: Boil milk and let it simmer for a few minutes with sugar and cardamom. Let the milk cool down slightly. Chop up fruits like bananas, apples, and pomegranates and add them to the cooled milk You can serve this kheer chilled for a delightful treat.7. Badam Kheer (Almond Kheer)Almonds provide sustained energy and are a good source of protein, making this kheer both delicious and nourishing It’s a rich and creamy dessert, perfect for special festive days.How to make it: Soak and peel almonds, then blend them into a fine paste with a little milkBoil the remaining milk and add the almond paste, cooking it on low heat until the kheer thickens. Add sugar and a hint of saffron for color and aroma, and garnish with chopped almonds.
