Skip Regular Vrat Snacks, Try These Delicious Non-Fried Afghani Malai Momos

Who says fasting food has to be repetitive? If you're craving something indulgent, comforting and packed with flavour during Navratri, food influencer Chef Neha Deepak Shah has just the recipe for you. Her Vrat Special Afghani Malai Momos bring together the goodness of sabudana, fresh vegetables and a rich creamy sauce, creating a dish that feels festive while staying fasting-friendly.

The best part is that these momos are non-fried, making them a lighter alternative to traditional versions without compromising on taste.

The Secret Dough:

Instead of using regular flour, Chef Neha Deepak Shah prepares the momo covering with soaked sabudana and beetroot. The soaked sabudana is mashed well into a dough, while pressure-cooked beetroot blended with water adds a beautiful natural colour and subtle sweetness.

According to the chef, properly soaked sabudana is key to achieving a soft and pliable dough that holds the filling together perfectly.

A Nutritious Filling:

The filling is a wholesome mix of grated carrots, lauki, paneer and crushed peanuts. Fresh green chillies, ginger, coriander, sendha namak, black pepper and chilli flakes further elevate the flavours. This combination not only adds texture but also ensures that the momos remain hearty and satisfying, making them ideal for fasting days when balanced nutrition is important.

Creamy Afghani Malai Sauce:

What truly sets this recipe apart is its rich Afghani-style malai sauce. Prepared with whole spices such as bay leaf, peppercorns, cinnamon and cardamom, the sauce gets its creamy texture from cashews, makhana and milk.

A touch of ginger, green chilli and sendha namak enhances the flavour profile, while optional additions like kasoori methi and garam masala lend extra depth. The result is a smooth, aromatic sauce that pairs beautifully with the soft sabudana momos.

Finishing Touches:

Before serving, the momos are generously topped with plain chilli oil, crushed peanuts, pomegranate arils and fresh coriander. These garnishes add colour, crunch and freshness to every bite.

Why You Should Try It:

With its vibrant appearance, wholesome ingredients and creamy Afghani flavours, Chef Neha Deepak Shah's Vrat Special Afghani Malai Momos offer a refreshing break from the usual fasting menu. Whether you're observing Navratri or simply looking for a unique snack, this recipe proves that vrat food can be both nourishing and restaurant-worthy.

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