If you are one of those people like me who love food that is made on fasting days (especially in India), just cause it tastes so good, you are on the right page.
India and Shiva devotees world over are celebrating Mahashivratri today and on this occasion my earliest memories of food on this day goes back to my Ma making a sweetened Lentil Soup which we called Parpu Kanji.
For most Iyer homes, Parpu Kanji is a popular fasting food as it is full of proteins, minerals, dairy and fills you up real good.
Those of you looking for options to add to your fasting platter today or simply want to try this recipe...here it is~
3/4 cup split Moong dal (yellow Moong dal)
3/4 Grated Jaggery
2-1/2 cups milk
1-1/2 cup water
2 Cardamom pods (optional)
Handful of cashew roasted in ghee (optional)
In a pan dry roast dal until it turns golden brown and gives out a flavorful aroma. Make sure not to burn it.
Pressure cook this dal with 1 cup water for 3 whistles, until it softens.
Boil milk and keep separate.
In a heavy bottom pan add Jaggery and 1/2 cup water and let Jaggery melt.
Add cooked dal and mix well.
Turn off the flame and add milk, Cardamom Powder and roasted cashew.
Serve warm.
Avoid Cardamom and Cashew if you think they are not to be had for a fast. This whole recipe is debatable for a pure fast but nonetheless, I love it and I don't observe a fast for any religious purposes...I feast on food with every opportunity I get...so hope you enjoy :)
