VRAT & FASTING · UPDATED 23 OCTOBER 2026

Makhana Recipes for Navratri and Ekadashi

Makhana is a flexible ingredient for many fasting kitchens: roast it, cook it into kheer or add it to a simple curry. Because vrat rules differ, treat these as a framework and verify every ingredient against your tradition.

By Makosee Editorial TeamUpdated 23 October 20266 min read
Makhana Recipes for Navratri and Ekadashi — Makosee
Quick answer

Makhana is a flexible ingredient for many fasting kitchens: roast it, cook it into kheer or add it to a simple curry. Because vrat rules differ, treat these as a framework and verify every ingredient against your tradition.

Three simple ideas

RecipeWhat to check
Sendha-namak roasted makhanaOil, salt and spice blend
Makhana kheerMilk, sweetener, nuts and cardamom
Makhana curry or sabjiPotato, tomato, yoghurt, peanut or coconut base

A sensible fasting plate

A snack alone is not a complete meal. Pair makhana with permitted foods, keep water intake in mind and use a portion that prevents mindless grazing. If you have diabetes, are pregnant or take medication, discuss fasting with your clinician.

Quick preparation plan

  1. Batch roast

    Roast plain makhana once and store it airtight for a short period.

  2. Choose the format

    Use the kernels for a snack, kheer or curry.

  3. Season carefully

    Use only ingredients permitted by your fast.

PEOPLE ALSO ASK

Frequently asked questions

Can I eat makhana in Navratri vrat?

Many families do, especially as plain roasted makhana or kheer, but ingredients and rules vary.

Is makhana allowed in Ekadashi?

It is commonly used in some Ekadashi meal patterns, but follow the food list you observe.

NEXT STEP

Check the full fasting guide

Read the label and household-rule checklist before choosing a packaged or restaurant preparation.

Check the full fasting guide →