They say the best ingredient to make food tasty is hunger. That first bite after a day-long fast will surely taste divine. In this season, it’s the snacks in between fasts that truly shine. Make all your Navratri munching tastier than ever with these lip-smacking traditional pooja recipes. Let fasting be fun!

Aama vada
Aama vada is a variant of parippu vada, where lentils and leaves take the place of onions. Make extra—they double up as the perfect evening snack with tea.

Aama Vada
Aama Vada

Milk kheer
No festival is complete without kheer or payasam. Try this easy milk kheer recipe, which needs only five ingredients!

Milk kheer. Photo: iStock/santhosh_varghese
Milk kheer. Photo: iStock/santhosh_varghese
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Kadala sundal
Worried about your diet this festival season? Opt for this protein-rich legume snack that’s light on oil but big on flavour.

The simple snack that can be made at home is also a protein-rich meal that can be prepared for fun snacking on other days. File Photo
The simple snack that can be made at home is also a protein-rich meal that can be prepared for fun snacking on other days. File Photo

Groundnut sundal
Sundals are always the healthier choice among pooja treats, and this variety is crunchy too. What more could you ask for?

Groundnut sundal
Groundnut sundal

Kadala parippu sundal
Add some colour to your pooja spread with this vibrant mixed sundal. This yummy snack is easy to prepare and a fan favourite!

Kadalai parippu sundal
Kadalai parippu sundal
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Maladu
Uh-oh... ran out of laddus? No worries, whip up these easy, melt-in-your-mouth sweet balls that’ll satisfy your cravings in no time.

Maladu
Maladu

Vanpayar sundal
For those with a sweet tooth, here’s an irresistible cowpea sundal made with melted jaggery and coconut.

Vanpayar Sundal
Vanpayar Sundal

Sakkarai puttu
This nutty, time-honoured treat has been a favourite across generations. Who needs halwa when you have sakkarai puttu!

Sakkarai puttu
Sakkarai puttu
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Mixed fruit sundal
A relatively new member of the sundal family, this colourful dish has become a favourite dessert for all occasions. We must admit, it’s probably the prettiest one too!

Mixed fruit sundal
Mixed fruit sundal