Navratri is a vibe - colourful dresses, jewellery, dance! And for some, another important part of Navratri is fasting. Now for moms, the biggest challenge is “How can we make festive food both healthy and exciting for children?”

Luckily, the traditional foods we eat during Navratri are not just delicious but also very nutritious. With a little creativity, you can turn them into meals that fuel your child’s energy while giving them a taste of our culture.

1. Sabudana (Tapioca Pearls) Khichdi

Sabudana is one of the most popular Navratri foods. It is rich in carbohydrates. It gives a quick energy boost.

To make it more nutritious, add roasted peanuts for protein and a squeeze of lemon for vitamin C. You can also sneak in finely chopped vegetables like carrots or beans if your family’s fasting rules allow.
 

2. Kuttu (Buckwheat) Pancakes

Kuttu atta is a powerhouse of energy. It is packed with fiber and essential minerals. Instead of sticking to the usual puris, why not make pancakes or chillas out of it? Children usually love pancake-like dishes.

Mix the flour with mashed bananas or a little jaggery for natural sweetness. Serve with honey or yogurt on the side.
 

3. Makhana (Fox Nuts) Snacks

Makhana is often called a super snack because it’s rich in calcium, protein, and antioxidants. For children, it’s a great substitute for chips or popcorn.

Roast them in a little ghee with a sprinkle of rock salt. This will make a crunchy evening. Snack for children. You can even toss them with a bit of cocoa powder or cinnamon for a sweet twist.

4. Singhara (Water Chestnut) Flour Halwa

Children will never say no to sweets and they know festivals are the best time to make their sweet tooth happy.

 Singhara flour is gluten-free and full of minerals like potassium and magnesium. A halwa made from singhara atta, ghee, and jaggery is great for stamina.
Jaggery gives natural sweetness and also boosts iron intake. This halwa is soft, making it perfect even for younger children who may not be able to chew harder sweets.

5. Sabudana Vada (Shallow-Fried)

Traditional sabudana vadas are usually deep-fried, but you can make a bit healthier by shallow frying them in appam pans. It will give you small round balls of sabudana vadas which will be liked by children. Air frying is another healthier option.

Serve with a fresh yogurt dip, children will enjoy them as finger food.

6. Fresh Fruits and Dry Fruits

No Navratri meal is complete without fruits. They provide natural sugars, hydration, and a burst of vitamins. Apples, bananas, papayas, and pomegranates are excellent for energy. Adding dry fruits like almonds, raisins, and cashews provides healthy fats and protein.
 

Make it exciting by preparing a fruit chaat with rock salt, honey, and a pinch of chaat masala.
Children will think it is a special festive dish, not just plain fruit.

7. Rajgira (Amaranth) Laddoos

Rajgira or amaranth is an ancient supergrain loaded with calcium, iron, and protein. Laddoos made from popped rajgira and jaggery are crunchy and bite-sized. They are just right for little hands.
These laddoos are also long-lasting, so you can store them in an airtight jar for the whole festival.
 

8. Samak Rice Pulao

Samak rice is also called barnyard millet. It is a healthier substitute for white rice. Light on the stomach, it is packed with fiber and minerals.
 

Cook it just like rice pulao, add carrots, beans, and peas (if permitted during fasts) along with mild spices.
Children will barely notice the difference and you will be happy knowing it is more nutritious than regular rice.

9. Homemade Yogurt Smoothies

Yogurt is full of probiotics that support digestion. It is very important during festive days when meals can be heavier than usual. Blending yogurt with fruits like mango, banana, or strawberries makes a delicious smoothie.
Add a touch of honey or dates for sweetness.
Serve it chilled as an evening drink. It will cool your child down after hours of dancing or playing.

This year, serve your children these healthy yet festive foods to keep them happy and connected to the spirit of Navratri.