Purtassi 2024!
Happy Purtassi to everyone observing.
Last year, I started a Purtassi series where I shared a new vegetarian recipe every day of the fast. The response from those who observed was amazing, so this year, I’m excited to continue sharing inspiration from my kitchen to yours. I hope these Purtassi recipes will offer a fresh perspective on vegetables and enhance your fasting experience.
I also want to use my platform to educate people about Purtassi. Fasting for Purtassi has always been a tradition in my family. I was fortunate enough to marry into a family that also observes this fast. When my husband and I moved in together, I wanted to make fasting seem effortless, so I searched for recipes and inspiration online that were not only appealing but also provided a decent amount of protein. Over the years, it has become a period we truly embrace.
So, what is Purtassi and why do we fast? Here’s an explanation of why many Hindus observe fasting during this period:
Purtassi is a significant month in the Tamil Hindu calendar dedicated to honouring Lord Vishnu. It typically falls between mid-September and mid-October (17 September – 17 October), aligning with the Tamil month of Purattasi. This period is considered auspicious for Hindus, and many observe it with fasting and devotion.
During Purtassi, devotees seek blessings from Lord Vishnu for protection, prosperity, and spiritual growth. Lord Vishnu is believed to protect the universe and maintain order. Fasting helps cleanse the body and mind, creating space for introspection and connection with the divine. Some Hindus abstain from meat, alcohol, and other indulgences as a form of discipline and sacrifice.
In homes, prayers and special rituals are performed, often on Saturdays, which are considered especially sacred during this time. Many temples also hold festivals and processions dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and it’s common for families to offer traditional vegetarian meals as part of their devotion.
Purtassi is a time for reflection, gratitude, and spiritual rejuvenation. It’s also a way to acknowledge the Earth’s bounty, show respect for the resources provided, and offer thanks to the divine for their protection and blessings throughout the year.
If you followed last year’s series, I hope you received plenty of ideas and inspiration. This year, I’ll be sharing new recipes, and I hope you and your family enjoy them. May these recipes help you connect with the produce you use and give thanks to Mother Nature as we observe the fast this year.
Mixed vegetable curries are all about love and care, bringing together a beautiful medley of flavours and textures. One of my favourite ways to prepare this dish is by cooking it over an open fire, which adds a smoky depth to the curry. This recipe is a bit of a “luck of the draw” you […]
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Looking for a comforting, warm snack to enjoy with a hot cup of tea? These Eggless Sweet Corn and Zucchini Fritters are the ultimate treat! Combining the essence of pancakes and bhajis (pakoras), they’re customizable, delicious, and easy to make. What Makes These Fritters Special?These veggie fritters require minimal ingredients, allowing you to add your
Eggless Sweet Corn and Zucchini Fritters Read More »
This red pepper pesto pasta is an absolute winner! I remember the first time I made it—almost two decades ago. It all began when I mastered the art of making a cheese sauce, which serves as the base for this dish. The classic white sauce, with or without cheese, is enhanced by adding fresh basil
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These protein bars remind me of a healthy version of a Snickers bar. My husband loves protein bars and asked me to make some while we are fasting. These protein bars are made with just a few ingredients, are incredibly easy to make, and can be stored for up to a week in the fridge
Peanut Butter Date Protein Bars Read More »
If you’ve never tried an oyster mushroom burger, this is your sign to make one! These are hands-down some of the best vegetarian burgers I’ve ever made. The texture from the king oyster mushrooms is absolutely amazing! These mushrooms have soft, thin flesh, absorb flavours easily, and maintain a tender, juicy texture whether sautéed, grilled,
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This vegetarian savoury rice is a crowd-pleaser! There are countless variations of savoury rice, but when I think of it, my mind takes me back to childhood memories of yellow rice with frozen mixed vegetables. We often had this dish with seafood like grilled fish or prawns. Now, when I make a simple savoury rice,
Soya Prawns Savoury Rice Read More »
I love Paneer Makhani – it’s creamy, sweet, spicy, and, well, it’s paneer! Here’s my simple take on this classic dish. If you’re searching for a Paneer Makhani recipe that’s easy to make yet full of all the traditional Indian flavours, this is the one to try! INGREDIENTS – 400g paneer– 1/4 cup cashews– 4
This Chinese Eggplant, Mushroom, and Tofu Stir-fry is a delicious, a protein-packed dish that cooks in no time! I love using Chinese eggplant for its unique texture and flavour. You can customise this stir-fry by adding extra veggies or a handful of cashews for a crunchy twist. It’s quick, easy, and full of bold flavours.
Chinese Eggplant, Mushroom, and Tofu Stir-fry Read More »
This Thai Curry Noodle Soup is incredibly tasty! Think spicy, comforting, and moorish. It’s perfect for adding extra protein, and you can mix in your favourite veggies. The yellow curry paste is fragrant, packed with warm spices, and adds a delicious flavour to this Thai noodle soup. INGREDIENTS – 1 tin chickpeas– 1 lemongrass stick–
Thai Curry Noodle Soup Read More »
Delicious veggie burgers just the way you like them! The key to great veggie burgers is texture. You can coat them in breadcrumbs or simply season and fry them until they get a perfect sear on each side. INGREDIENTS – Soya burgers– Plain or seeded buns– Sliced onions– Shredded lettuce– Frozen chips– Sauce of your
