Indulge in a Guilt-Free Navratri Dessert: Day 1 Vrat Special with Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener
Navratri is not only a time for devotion and celebration but also an opportunity to rejuvenate both mind and body. During the nine days of fasting, it's essential to nourish your body with food that aligns with the principles of purity and simplicity while staying true to your health goals. This Navratri, why not sweeten your fasts with a delicious and healthy dessert made with Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener?
Monk fruit sweeteners are becoming increasingly popular as a healthier alternative to refined sugar. Derived from monk fruit, this natural sweetener is calorie-free, has a low glycemic index, and is perfect for those looking to maintain their energy levels during fasting without the sugar rush. What makes it especially suitable for vrat (fasting) recipes is its clean sweetness, which blends beautifully with traditional Indian flavors.
Let’s explore a vrat-friendly, delectable dessert that is easy to make, nutritious, and totally free from refined sugar: Shakarkandi (Sweet Potato) Kheer sweetened with Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener.
Why Shakarkandi Kheer is Perfect for Navratri
Shakarkandi, or sweet potato, is an excellent food choice for vrat. It is a complex carbohydrate that provides long-lasting energy, which is particularly useful during fasting when meals are limited. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, helping you feel full while supporting your nutritional needs.
Pairing this natural root vegetable with Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener ensures you enjoy a sweet treat without the harmful effects of refined sugar. Additionally, the kheer has a comforting texture, making it a delightful addition to your fasting menu.
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 2 medium-sized shakarkandi (sweet potatoes)
- 1 liter of full-fat milk (you can substitute with almond or coconut milk for a vegan version)
- 3-4 tablespoons Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A handful of chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
- 1 tablespoon desiccated coconut (optional)
- Saffron strands (optional)
- A teaspoon of ghee (for roasting nuts)
- Water for boiling sweet potatoes
Step-by-Step Recipe:
Step 1: Boiling the Sweet Potatoes
Begin by thoroughly washing the sweet potatoes under running water to remove any dirt. Place them in a pot of water and bring it to a boil. Cook the sweet potatoes until they are soft and tender. You can check by poking them with a fork—if it goes in smoothly, they’re done. This should take about 15-20 minutes.
Once cooked, remove the sweet potatoes from the water and allow them to cool. Once cool, peel off the skin and mash them into a smooth paste.
Step 2: Preparing the Milk Base
In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the milk to a boil. Once the milk starts boiling, lower the heat to simmer and let it reduce slightly while stirring occasionally. This step helps thicken the milk and intensify its flavor, which is key to a good kheer.
If you are opting for plant-based milk, such as almond or coconut milk, you can follow the same process but make sure to simmer the milk for less time as these alternatives can curdle if overcooked.
Step 3: Sweetening the Kheer
Once the milk has reduced to about 3/4 of its original volume, stir in the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix well to combine them evenly with the milk. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes will already give the kheer a mild sweetness, but this is where the magic of Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener comes in.
Add 3-4 tablespoons of Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener to the mixture. Adjust the sweetness according to your preference. The great thing about monk fruit sweetener is that it tastes just like sugar, so it won't alter the traditional flavor of the dish.
Step 4: Flavoring the Kheer
Add cardamom powder for that warm, inviting flavor that complements the sweetness of the kheer. If you wish to add an extra layer of richness, sprinkle a few saffron strands soaked in a little warm milk. The saffron adds a beautiful golden hue and a subtle fragrance to the dish.
Step 5: Roasting the Nuts
In a separate small pan, heat a teaspoon of ghee. Once the ghee melts, add the chopped nuts and roast them until they turn golden brown and release a lovely aroma. Roasting the nuts adds a delightful crunch and richness to the kheer.
Step 6: Bringing It All Together
Once your kheer reaches a creamy consistency, stir in the roasted nuts and desiccated coconut (if using). Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Your shakarkandi kheer is now ready to be served! You can enjoy it warm, or let it cool down for a chilled version. This kheer is perfect as a healthy dessert during Navratri fasting and can be enjoyed without any guilt, thanks to the inclusion of Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener.
Health Benefits of This Dessert
Not only is this shakarkandi kheer delicious, but it also offers a range of health benefits, particularly when you are fasting:
- Rich in Fiber: Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full for longer periods—something especially useful when you're fasting.
- Packed with Nutrients: Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A, C, and B6, along with essential minerals like potassium and magnesium. They help maintain energy levels and support overall body function during fasting.
- Low-Glycemic Index: Unlike refined sugar, both sweet potatoes and Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener have a low glycemic index. This means they release glucose more slowly into the bloodstream, preventing sharp spikes in blood sugar levels. This makes it easier for your body to maintain energy and avoid sudden crashes.
- Keto and Diabetic-Friendly: Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener is keto-friendly and ideal for people with diabetes, making this kheer a safe dessert option for those with specific dietary needs.
- Natural Sweetness: Monk fruit sweetener is 100% natural and contains zero calories. It doesn’t spike blood sugar like traditional sugars, which makes it an ideal option for maintaining balanced energy during Navratri fasting.
Navratri fasting can often seem restrictive, especially when you have a sweet tooth. But with a little creativity and the right ingredients, you can still enjoy delicious, satisfying treats that honor your health goals. This shakarkandi kheer made with Lakanto Monkfruit Sweetener offers a perfect balance of flavor and nutrition, making it an ideal choice for your Day 1 vrat meal.
As you embark on your spiritual journey during Navratri, this dessert will give you the energy to continue your fast without compromising on taste or health. Indulge guilt-free, and let this nutritious dessert bring a touch of sweetness to your festive celebrations!