Navratri Vrat Recipe - Kuttu Ka Dosa

Navratri is one of the most cherished festivals in India, celebrated with great zeal and devotion across the country. During these nine days, many people observe fasting (or vrat) to honor Goddess Durga. As part of the fasting rituals, people refrain from eating regular grains and spices, and instead, consume sattvik (pure) food that is simple, nutritious, and light. Among the many fasting foods, Kuttu Ka Dosa (Buckwheat Pancake) is a popular and delicious dish enjoyed by many during this festive period. This article will guide you through the easy steps to prepare Kuttu Ka Dosa for your Navratri vrat.

Ingredients for Kuttu Ka Dosa:

1 cup Kuttu ka Atta (buckwheat flour)

1/2 cup boiled and mashed potatoes

1/4 teaspoon jeera (cumin seeds)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper powder

1/2 teaspoon sendha namak (rock salt)

1/4 teaspoon haldi (turmeric)

1 tablespoon ginger, finely grated

2 tablespoons water (adjust as needed)

Ghee or oil for cooking

Instructions for Making Kuttu Ka Dosa:

In a large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of Kuttu ka atta (buckwheat flour) and 1/2 cup of boiled and mashed potatoes. To this, add cumin seeds, black pepper powder, sendha namak (rock salt), and turmeric powder. Add finely grated ginger for an additional zing to the flavor. Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly. Gradually add water to the mixture, a little at a time, and stir continuously until a smooth batter is formed. The batter should have a thick but spreadable consistency, similar to regular dosa batter. If needed, adjust the water to get the right texture. Place a flat non-stick tawa (griddle) or frying pan on medium heat. Once the pan is hot, lightly grease it with ghee or oil to prevent the dosa from sticking. Pour a ladle of the batter onto the center of the tawa. Use the back of the ladle to spread the batter in a circular motion, making a thin, even layer of dosa. Allow the dosa to cook on medium heat for a few minutes.

Once the edges start to turn golden brown, flip the dosa carefully and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes, or until it becomes crispy and golden. Remove the Kuttu Ka Dosa from the pan and place it on a serving plate. Serve it hot with a side of fresh yogurt, coconut chutney, or a sweet chutney made from jaggery.

Tips for the Perfect Kuttu Ka Dosa:

Consistency of the Batter: The batter should be thick enough to spread easily but not runny. Adjust the water as needed to get the right consistency.

Crispness: To make the dosa extra crispy, make sure the tawa is hot before pouring the batter and cook it on medium heat without covering it.

Toppings: You can also add finely chopped vegetables like onions, tomatoes, or coriander leaves into the batter to enhance the flavor, although these are optional during fasting.

Why Choose Kuttu Ka Dosa for Navratri Fasting?

Kuttu ka Dosa is a perfect dish for fasting during Navratri as it is made from buckwheat flour (kuttu), which is a gluten-free, light, and nutritious alternative to regular grains. This dish is easy to digest and provides a good amount of energy, making it ideal for people observing the vrat. It is also rich in fiber, which helps keep you full and satisfied during the fasting period.

Moreover, Kuttu ka Dosa is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed not just during Navratri, but also during any religious fasting period. It's also a great option for those who are looking for healthy, alternative options to replace regular dosas during their fasting period.