Rajgira Puri (Amaranth Flatbread) (Rajgira Pūrikā)
A nourishing, gluten-free fasting flatbread made from amaranth flour, traditionally prepared to provide sustained energy and digestive ease.
Rajgira Puri is a traditional, gluten-free flatbread crafted from amaranth flour, a nutrient-dense grain revered in Ayurvedic fasting traditions. Amaranth is considered 'Rajgira' or the 'King's grain,' known for its grounding and nourishing qualities. This preparation is a staple during Vrat (fasting) periods, providing sustained energy while remaining light on the digestive fire (Agni). In accordance with the principles of Annapanavidhi, this dish is prepared with moderation in mind. While traditionally deep-fried, the modern Ayurvedic approach encourages pan-searing with a small amount of ghee to maintain the integrity of the grain's properties without excessive heaviness. It is best enjoyed warm, paired with a simple potato curry or a cooling yogurt dip to balance the inherent warmth of the grain.
At a glance
- Category: Fasting
- Meal: lunch
Ingredients
- Amaranth flour — 1 cup
- Ghee (Clarified Butter) — 1 tbsp
- Rock Salt (Saindhava) — 0.5 tsp
- Filtered Water — 0.5 cup
Method
- 1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of amaranth flour with a pinch of rock salt (sendha namak). (Tip: Rock salt is preferred in fasting to maintain sattvic quality.)
- 2. Gradually add warm water to the flour, kneading until a soft, pliable dough forms. (Tip: Amaranth flour lacks gluten, so handle the dough gently to prevent cracking.)
- 3. Divide the dough into small balls and flatten them into small circles using your palms or a rolling pin between two sheets of parchment paper. (Tip: Using parchment paper prevents the dough from sticking.)
- 4. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Lightly brush with ghee and cook the puris for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. (Tip: Pan-searing is a lighter alternative to traditional deep-frying.)
Health benefits
- Supports sustained energy levels
- Provides essential minerals
- Nourishing for the tissues
Indications
- Fasting (Vrat)
- Gluten-sensitivity
- Need for grounding nourishment
Suitable doshas
- vata
- pitta
- kapha
Pathya (supportive)
- Suitable for consumption during Ekadashi or Navratri fasting periods.
Apathya (avoid)
- Avoid in cases of severe digestive stagnation or if the individual has a very weak Agni (mandagni).
Contraindications
- Acute digestive distress
- Severe constipation
Classical sources
- Charaka Samhita · Sutra Sthana · Unknown Varga · Tasyashitiya Adhyaya · Dravadravya Vigyan Adhyaya · Dinacharya Adi Vyadhivigyan Adhyaya · Dinacharya Adi Vyadhivigyan · Kho Shodash Mahamula Adhyaya · Annapanavidhi Adhyaya · Annapanavidhi · Tasyashitiya Varga · Tasyashitiya · Navegandharaniya Varga · Navegandharaniya · Dipaniya Adhyaya · Unit 73 — 01 73
- Charaka Samhita · Sutra Sthana · Annapanavidhi · Unit 9 — 01 9
- Charaka Samhita · Sutra Sthana · Unknown Varga · Tasyashitiya Adhyaya · Dravadravya Vigyan Adhyaya · Dinacharya Adi Vyadhivigyan Adhyaya · Dinacharya Adi Vyadhivigyan · Kho Shodash Mahamula Adhyaya · Annapanavidhi Adhyaya · Annapanavidhi · Tasyashitiya Varga · Tasyashitiya · Navegandharaniya Varga · Navegandharaniya · Dipaniya Adhyaya · Unit 6 — 01 6
Frequently asked questions
What is Rajgira Puri (Amaranth Flatbread)?
A nourishing, gluten-free fasting flatbread made from amaranth flour, traditionally prepared to provide sustained energy and digestive ease.
What are the health benefits of Rajgira Puri (Amaranth Flatbread)?
Supports sustained energy levels. Provides essential minerals. Nourishing for the tissues
Which doshas is Rajgira Puri (Amaranth Flatbread) suitable for?
Rajgira Puri (Amaranth Flatbread) is traditionally considered suitable for vata, pitta, kapha.