Top 10 Traditional Sankranti Dishes

Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn) on its celestial path, heralding the arrival of longer days. This auspicious occasion is synonymous with kite flying, bonfires, and most importantly, the preparation of an array of traditional dishes. Celebrated across India with great fervor, Sankranti is a time when families come together to indulge in harvest recipes that are as delicious as they are significant. Here are the top 10 traditional Sankranti dishes that you must try.

Sweet Beginnings with Til Laddoo

Sankranti festivities are incomplete without the quintessential Til Laddoo. Made from sesame seeds (til) and jaggery, these laddoos are not only delectable but are also packed with nutrients that provide warmth during the winter season. They symbolize togetherness and are shared among loved ones to denote a sweet start to the year.

Pongal - The Staple of Sankranti

This eponymous dish of the Tamil harvest festival, Pongal, is a savory rice dish cooked with lentils and seasoned with cumin, ginger, and pepper. There's also a sweet version, known as Sakkarai Pongal, which includes jaggery, cardamom, and ghee, offering a rich and aromatic flavor.

Puran Poli - The Maharashtrian Delight

Puran Poli is a sweet flatbread that is a Maharashtrian specialty during Sankranti. The stuffing, known as puran, is a mixture of chana dal and jaggery, flavored with cardamom and nutmeg, encased in a soft wheat flour dough. It's usually served with a dollop of ghee.

Bajra Khichdi

Hailing from the northern part of India, Bajra Khichdi is a wholesome and hearty dish made from pearl millet (bajra) and moong dal. It's known for its warming properties and is typically served with ghee and accompaniments like yogurt or papad.

Makara Chaula

A special dish from Odisha, Makara Chaula is prepared with newly harvested rice, banana, coconut, jaggery, and milk. This no-cook dish is a ritual offering to the gods and is consumed as prasad by devotees.

Sankranti Snacks and Savories

Murukku and Chakli

These crunchy spiral snacks made from rice flour and urad dal are popular in South India during Sankranti. They are deep-fried to golden perfection and are perfect for munching throughout the festival.

Sajjige and Bajil

This is a simple yet satisfying dish from Karnataka, which combines roasted semolina (sajjige) and puffed rice (bajil) with a hint of sugar and coconut. It's a light snack that complements the heavier dishes of the festival.

The Finale with Payasam

Payasam, also known as kheer, is a creamy rice pudding made with milk, rice, sugar, and cardamom, and often garnished with nuts and raisins. It's the perfect dessert to end the Sankranti meal on a sweet note.

Health in a Bowl: Mixed Vegetable Curry

Loaded with seasonal vegetables, this curry is a staple in many households during Sankranti. It's a healthy and delicious way to incorporate the harvest's bounty into the festive menu.

Jaggery Roti

Jaggery Roti or Gur Roti is a sweetened flatbread popular in the northern regions of India. The jaggery imparts a subtle sweetness, making it an ideal accompaniment to savory curries or enjoyed on its own.

These dishes not only showcase the regional diversity of Indian cuisine but also embody the spirit of Makar Sankranti, which is all about celebration, gratitude, and the joy of harvest. Each dish is steeped in tradition and is a testament to the agricultural roots of India. As you relish these Sankranti dishes, you partake in a legacy that has been passed down through generations, celebrating the essence of this harvest festival.