11 Karva Chauth Sargi Dishes to Power Your Fast — Traditional and Modern Picks

2. Phirni (Rice Pudding)

Phirni is a soft, milky rice pudding traditionally flavored with cardamom and saffron. It’s a common sargi sweet across many regions because it’s gentle on the stomach and provides a comforting source of calories before a fast. The milk supplies protein and calcium, while the rice gives slow-release carbohydrates. If you hold closely to tradition, a small bowl of phirni can feel indulgent yet soothing. To keep it light and digestible, make phirni with slightly less sugar and a generous pinch of cardamom. Using soaked and ground rice yields a silky texture that people usually prefer for sargi. For a modern tweak, prepare phirni with a mix of low-fat milk and a spoonful of ground almonds to boost protein. Chill it the night before or keep it in a small thermos if you like it warm; either way, a small bowl goes a long way toward steady energy.