Sabudana Khichdi (Sago Pearl Pilaf) Maha Shivaratri Special

 Today, February 26, 2025, coincides with the celebration of Maha Shivratri, a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees often observe fasts and prepare special dishes that align with traditional fasting guidelines. Here's a vrat-friendly recipe you can feature on your Blogspot to honor this auspicious day:

Sabudana Khichdi (Sago Pearl Pilaf)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sabudana (sago pearls)
• 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, coarsely ground
• 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped
• A few curry leaves
• Rock salt (sendha namak) to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preparation: Rinse the sabudana under running water until the water runs clear. Soak them in water for about 4-5 hours or overnight. Once soaked, drain any excess water and set aside.
2. Cooking Potatoes: Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and sauté until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Tempering: In the same pan, add the remaining ghee. Once hot, add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add chopped green chilies and curry leaves, sautéing for a few seconds.
4. Combining Ingredients: Add the soaked sabudana, cooked potatoes, and ground peanuts to the pan. Season with rock salt and mix well.
5. Cooking: Cook the mixture on medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the sabudana turns translucent and is cooked through.
6. Serving: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

This Sabudana Khichdi is a light yet nutritious dish, perfect for those observing the Maha Shivratri fast. It's flavorful and provides the necessary energy during the fasting period.

Note: Ensure that all ingredients used comply with the fasting guidelines you follow, as practices may vary.

For more vrat-friendly recipes and insights into Maha Shivratri celebrations, you can refer to NDTV Food.

Wishing you a blessed and joyful Maha Shivratri!