As the holy month of Sawan descends, it is accompanied by a spirit of devotion and piety. This month, dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati, is observed by many Hindus with fasting (vrat) days and special pujas. But even amidst the austerity, there is room for delicious innovation! Falahar, a specific type of food consumed during fasts, often incorporates fruits and vegetables. And what better fruit to celebrate it with other than the mango itself?
Sawan Maas, also known as Shravan, marks the beginning of the monsoon season in India. This period, lasting for about a month, is steeped in reverence for Lord Shiva. Devotees observe fasts, particularly on Mondays (Sawan Somwar), offering prayers and seeking blessings from the divine couple. Legends say the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan) during this time released various entities, including the potent poison Halahal. Lord Shiva, in his benevolence, consumed the poison to save the world, earning the epithet Neelkanth (the blue-throated one).
Falahar, a crucial part of Sawan vrats, allows devotees to nourish themselves with simple, yet wholesome, foods. These recipes, adhering to the falahar guidelines are a must-try.
3 Mango Recipes for Sawan:
Aam Panna with a Twist: This refreshing drink is a quintessential falahar beverage. Start with blending some ripe mangoes with water, mint leaves, cumin powder, jal jeera, and rock salt (sendha namak). Aam Panna is a tangy drink that keeps you hydrated and aids digestion, making it perfect for those observing fasts.
Sabudana Kheer with Mango (Tapioca Pearl Pudding): This creamy dessert offers a delightful twist on the classic kheer. Soak sabudana (tapioca pearls) for a few hours, then cook them in milk flavored with cardamom and saffron. Once cooked, add chopped mangoes and a touch of jaggery or dates for sweetness. This flavorful kheer is a satisfying and festive treat for breaking your fast.
Spiced Mango and Coconut Salad: This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of mangoes with the creaminess of coconut and a hint of spice. Toss diced mangoes with grated coconut, chopped green chilies, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a touch of black salt. This refreshing and light salad perfectly accompanies your main falahar course.
With a little creativity using seasonal fruits, you can create something delicious and healthy. So, this Sawan, celebrate the season, honor the traditions, and indulge in the delightful world of mangoes!
