With the first Monday of the holy month of Sawan approaching, many devotees are preparing for their fasts by planning simple and nutritious meals. If you're looking for a quick snack that can be prepared in advance, a homemade Sabudana-Peanut Mixture is a convenient option.

Made with ingredients commonly consumed during fasting, this crispy mixture is easy to prepare, stores well in an airtight container, and can be enjoyed as a light snack throughout the fasting period.

Here's an easy recipe you can try at home.

Ingredients

You'll need:

• 2 cups sabudana (sago pearls)

• 1 cup roasted peanuts

• 2 tablespoons ghee or fasting-friendly cooking oil

• 10–12 curry leaves (optional, if suitable for your fasting tradition)

• 2–3 green chilies, finely chopped (optional)

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• Rock salt (sendha namak), to taste

• ½ teaspoon black pepper powder

• ½ teaspoon roasted cumin powder

• A few cashews or almonds (optional)

Note: Fasting customs vary across regions and families. Use only ingredients that are permitted according to your personal or religious tradition.

How to Prepare the Mixture

Step 1: Roast the Sabudana

Heat a thick-bottomed pan over low to medium heat and dry roast the sabudana while stirring continuously.

Roast until the pearls become light, crisp, and slightly puffed. Remove them from the pan and allow them to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Peanuts

If you are using raw peanuts, roast them until crisp and remove the skin after cooling. Ready-roasted peanuts can also be used to save time.

Step 3: Temper the Spices

Heat ghee or oil in the same pan.

Add:

• Cumin seeds

• Curry leaves (if using)

• Green chilies (optional)

• Cashews or almonds (optional)

Cook for a minute until the ingredients become aromatic.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Add the roasted sabudana and peanuts to the pan.

Sprinkle:

• Rock salt

• Black pepper powder

• Roasted cumin powder

Mix gently until the seasoning is evenly distributed.

Allow the mixture to cool completely before storing.

Storage Tips

To help the mixture stay crisp and fresh:

• Store it only after it has cooled completely.

• Use a clean, dry, airtight container.

• Keep the container away from moisture and direct sunlight.

• Always use a dry spoon while serving.

When stored properly, the mixture can remain fresh for several weeks, depending on humidity and storage conditions.

Serving Suggestions

This fasting snack can be enjoyed:

• As a light mid-day snack.

• Alongside yogurt or curd.

• With a cup of tea or milk, if permitted during your fast.

• During travel or while at work.

Its crunchy texture and balanced combination of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein make it a convenient option for fasting days.

Tips for Better Results

• Roast the sabudana slowly to ensure it becomes crisp without burning.

• Avoid adding wet ingredients, as moisture can reduce shelf life.

• Adjust the spice level according to your preference.

• Prepare a larger batch if you plan to observe multiple fasting days during the month.

The Bottom Line

A homemade Sabudana-Peanut Mixture is a simple, tasty, and convenient snack for those observing Sawan fasts. With a few pantry ingredients and proper storage, you can prepare it in advance and enjoy it throughout the fasting season.

Disclaimer: Dietary practices during fasting differ among individuals, families, and regions. Please use ingredients that align with your personal traditions and dietary requirements.