Sabudana khichdi is indeed a popular fasting food, but it can be deceptive in its calorie content. A typical serving of sabudana khichdi, around one cup, contains approximately 250–300 calories. This estimate includes the basic ingredients like sabudana (tapioca pearls), peanuts, ghee or oil, spices, and potatoes. However, these numbers can vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used in your preparation.
When you include peanuts, you are adding not only healthy fats but also calories, so it’s wise to be mindful of portion sizes. For instance, a small handful of peanuts can add roughly another 100–150 calories. Potatoes, being starchy, also contribute to the calorie count but provide essential carbohydrates needed for energy, especially when fasting.
To make sabudana khichdi a bit more balanced, consider a few adjustments. Use less oil or switch to a lighter cooking oil if ghee is not a must for your taste. Substitute or reduce the amount of potato with vegetables like peas or carrots to add fiber and nutrients without excessive calories. You can also roast the peanuts dry to retain their crunch but cut down on additional fat.
From Siddha-Ayurvedic perspective, keep an eye on your AGNI, or digestive fire, as sabudana can be quite heavy to digest for some. Adding a pinch of black pepper or ginger while preparing can help in enhancing digestion. Additionally, balancing Vata with a bit of warmth and grounding spices like cumin and mustard seeds can improve its digestibility.
Remember that it’s essential to listen to your body — if you feel heavy or sluggish, it may indicate a need to adjust portion sizes or ingredients. Maintaining a balance is key, and with these tweaks, you can enjoy sabudana khichdi more mindfully.
