One of the most loved vrat-friendly dishes is Samak Chawal Pulao, a light, nutritious, and satisfying recipe that makes fasting both delicious and fulfilling.
Navratri 2025 is going to give us a surprise because this year Maa Durga will stay with us for 10 days. Yes! It’s also about blessings and mindful eating during the total 10 days.
During these sacred days, grains like rice and wheat are avoided, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy wholesome and tasty meals. So let’s prepare ourselves about what to eat, how to eat, and when to eat.
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🍚 What is Samak Chawal?
Samak chawal (also called barnyard millet or Vrat Ke Chawal) is not actual rice grains but a gluten-free millet that looks and tastes very similar to rice.
That’s why it’s considered good for vrat like Navratri, Shivratri, Ika Dashi, Janmashthmi, etc. Rich in fiber, iron, and easy-to-digest nutrients, it is perfect for fasting days when the body needs light yet energy-giving meals for Dandia nights Delhi-style.
✨ Samak Chawal Pulao Recipe: Easy but Not Quick (20 min.)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Premium quality samak chawal, rinsed and soaked for 15 minutes
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 1–2 green chilies, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- Rock salt (sendha namak), as per taste
- 1 tbsp desi ghee
- 1½ cups water
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Method:
- Heat the ghee in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
- Add diced potatoes and green chilies, saute for 2–3 minutes.
- Add soaked samak chawal, rock salt, and water. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on low flame for 8–10 minutes until water is absorbed and chawal turns fluffy.
- Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot to those who are fasting and also those who are hungry.
💡This Pulao is Perfect for Both: Fasting & Regular Feasting
- With no grain, no gluten, this recipe is completely suitable for fasting rituals.
- Quick & easy, because it is ready in under 20 minutes.
- It is light, but nutritious to keep you full without heaviness.
- Can be enjoyed on non-fasting days as a night snack or light dinner.
- Loved by all age groups when served with chutney, curd, or plain yogurt.
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How To Choose the Right Ingredients
Find fresh & premium quality ingredients and choose online shopping to avoid outing during fasting. Here are some brands and platforms that can make your fasting days easy and affordable…
AKB Samak Chawal: Premium in quality, packed in a sealed pouch, has a long shelf life, is 100% vegetarian, rich in nutrients, and free from artificial additives.
Amul Pure Ghee: Considered good for sacred activities like hawan, puja, fasting, etc., and rich in energy and vitamin A. The pack says it is consumed for better digestion and for glowing skin.
Onlyhydroponics: For fresh & organic vegetables & fruits, choose it, but it may incur delivery charges.
Aap Ka Bazar: For premium quality spices and free home delivery in Dwarka, Delhi & NCR*
In the online purchasing era, Navratri essentials would be delivered right to your doorstep without standing in the billing queue, and having all types of payment modes. No more excuses like, “Sorry! Change Nahi Hai”.
This Navratri 2025, add Samak Chawal or Samak Atta to your fasting menu and have a wholesome, tasty, and aligned with vrat special meal. With its rice-like feel and nourishing goodness, samak chawal proves that festive fasting can be as delicious as feasting. And to set up a Pooja Space at Home, with the right pooja essentials, click and read our other blog.
