Sesame Rice (Til Bhaat)
Til Bhaat, or sesame rice, presents a simple yet flavorful way to incorporate the benefits of sesame seeds into your meal. This dish typically involves
cooking rice and then adding roasted sesame seeds, along with spices, to create a wholesome meal. The process begins with carefully roasting the sesame seeds until they release their nutty aroma. The rice is then cooked perfectly, ensuring each grain is separate. The roasted sesame seeds are mixed with the cooked rice. Spices like cumin seeds, a touch of asafoetida, and sometimes green chilies can be added for extra flavor. The combination of rice and sesame seeds offers a delightful texture and taste. Til Bhaat is often a staple during Makar Sankranti, providing a nutritious and satisfying meal. The dish exemplifies the common practice of using locally available ingredients to create culinary masterpieces.
Sesame Flour Curry (Til Pithla)
Next, the savory Til Pithla, a curry made with sesame flour, introduces a different dimension to the sesame seed celebration. Til Pithla provides a rich and creamy texture that beautifully complements the festival's other sweets and dishes. The sesame flour provides the base, thickened with water to the desired consistency. Aromatics such as onions, garlic, and ginger are first sautéed in oil, releasing their flavors. The sesame flour mixture is added to this base, along with spices such as turmeric, coriander, and chili powder, contributing to a symphony of flavors. Til Pithla is often served hot, with a garnish of fresh coriander leaves, adding a fresh and vibrant element. It is another way to make the most of sesame seeds' goodness during the festival.
Sesame Chutney (Til Chutney)
Til Chutney, or sesame chutney, adds a zesty and flavorful accompaniment to the Makar Sankranti feast. This chutney brings a burst of flavors that enhance the meal and is designed to stimulate the palate. Roasting sesame seeds is the initial step for Til Chutney, which unlocks their natural oils and nutty taste. To create a well-balanced flavor profile, the roasted sesame seeds are then ground with green chilies, garlic, and tamarind, imparting a tangy kick. The chutney gets its body by the blending of fresh coriander leaves. A little bit of salt balances the other flavors. Til Chutney is a perfect accompaniment to various dishes, adding an extra layer of taste to the celebratory meals. It is a quick and flavorful recipe that highlights the versatility of sesame seeds.
Sesame Spiced Flatbread (Til Thepla)
Moving on to Til Thepla, a sesame spiced flatbread, offers a delicious and portable option for your Makar Sankranti menu. This flatbread provides a lovely texture and taste, perfect for the celebratory occasion. The recipe starts with whole wheat flour that serves as the base for the thepla. Roasted sesame seeds are added to the dough, enriching it with the nutritional benefits and taste of the sesame. The spiced flavors like turmeric, chili powder, and cumin add an aromatic kick. To make the dough, spices are mixed into the flour and combined with water to create a soft dough. The theplas are then cooked until golden brown on a tava or griddle, typically using a little bit of oil. Til Thepla is an ideal snack during the festival, complementing the other sweet and savory dishes on offer.
