No Rice on Ekadashi? Try These 7 Satiating Main Course Dishes
India celebrates many festivals, each with its own religious rules and practices. One common tradition observed on Ekadashi involves avoiding rice consumption. If you follow this practice, you might wonder what to eat instead. Here are seven equally filling and delicious main course dishes to try on Ekadashi.
Why People Avoid Rice on Ekadashi
Several beliefs explain why rice is avoided on Ekadashi. According to the Bhavishya Purana, eating rice grains on this day turns them into worms in the body, which attracts negative karma. Many also believe that Lord Vishnu, the presiding deity of grains, rests on Ekadashi. Consuming grains like rice is seen as disrespectful during this time.
Ayurveda offers another perspective. It states that grains such as rice are heavy and increase tamas, or lethargy. Avoiding these grains helps keep the body light and the mind clear. This clarity supports the spiritual practices often performed on Ekadashi.
Aloo Paratha
Aloo Paratha ranks among the most popular and filling parathas. You make it by stuffing spiced mashed potatoes into flour dough. Roll it out and cook it on a tawa with ghee or oil. This dish pairs perfectly with curd and pickle for a complete meal.
Besan Ka Cheela
Besan Ka Cheela is a simple, protein-rich option. Combine besan with curd or buttermilk, then season it with salt, pepper, and cumin. Add seasonal vegetables like carrot, capsicum, and peas. Cook the mixture like a pancake on a greased non-stick pan. Serve it hot with green chutney for extra flavor.
Sabudana Khichdi
Sabudana Khichdi works as a convenient one-pot meal. Soak sabudana pearls first. Then cook them in a tempering of ghee, cumin, green chilli, and peanuts. Season with coriander powder, salt, and pepper. This light yet satisfying dish goes well with raita.
Kutti ki Puri
Kutti ki Puri uses buckwheat flour to create a crisp exterior with a soft inside. These puris typically accompany a simple potato curry. Together, they provide both energy and satiety, making them an excellent choice for Ekadashi.
Khasta Kachori
Khasta Kachori is a famous deep-fried dish. Prepare a stiff dough with refined flour, ghee, salt, and carom seeds. Fill it with spiced and sautéed moong or urad dal. After stuffing, deep fry the kachoris until golden. They offer a hearty alternative to rice-based meals.
Namak aur Ajwain Paratha
Namak aur Ajwain Paratha is a well-known paratha variety. Mix wheat flour with salt, carom seeds, kalonji seeds, and some ghee. Knead the dough with enough water, then roll it into triangular parathas. Cook them on a tawa using ghee or oil. Enjoy these parathas with curd and pickle for a fulfilling meal.
Rajgira Roti
Rajgira Roti is made from amaranth flour, resulting in a soft and fluffy texture. This roti pairs nicely with any vegetable curry, offering a nutritious and light option for Ekadashi. It helps maintain the body's lightness while providing essential nutrients.
These seven dishes demonstrate that avoiding rice on Ekadashi does not mean sacrificing satisfaction. Each recipe brings unique flavors and textures, ensuring you stay full and energized throughout the day. Try them to keep your traditions alive while enjoying delicious meals.
