Welcome to Lohri!
Lohri is a cherished festival in the Punjab region, typically celebrated in mid-January. It's a time for warmth, joy, and togetherness, marking the end
of winter and the lengthening of days. The tradition involves gathering around bonfires, singing folk songs, and, most importantly, enjoying a feast of delicious food. These recipes are perfect for those wanting to bring the spirit of Lohri into their homes, offering a taste of authentic Punjabi cuisine that warms both the body and soul. Remember to adjust spice levels to your personal preference, and most importantly, enjoy the process of cooking and sharing these dishes with loved ones.
Sarson da Saag
Sarson da Saag is a cornerstone of Punjabi cuisine, particularly enjoyed during the winter months. This dish features mustard greens (sarson), spinach, and other leafy greens, slow-cooked to perfection with ginger, garlic, and green chilies. The greens are simmered until tender, developing a deep, earthy flavor. Often served with makki di roti (cornmeal flatbread), a dollop of fresh white butter adds richness. Preparation time is a bit lengthy, but the flavor payoff is well worth it. You'll need about 1 kilogram of mustard greens, 250 grams of spinach, 1-inch ginger, 6-8 garlic cloves, and a few green chilies to start. You should chop the greens, then boil them until soft. After that, blend them, and saute the spices before mixing them in. Simmer until the saag has thickened, then serve.
Makki di Roti
Makki di Roti, or cornmeal flatbread, is the perfect companion to Sarson da Saag. The process of making makki di roti might seem tricky at first, as cornmeal doesn't have the same gluten properties as wheat flour. To make this, you'll need cornmeal (makki ka atta), warm water, and a pinch of salt. Mix the cornmeal with warm water and salt to form a dough. It should be soft but not sticky. Making the rotis involves patting out small circles of dough on your hands, carefully transferring them to a hot tawa (griddle), and cooking until golden brown on both sides. The key is to handle the dough gently and work quickly. These rotis should be cooked and served hot, and are best enjoyed with saag and a generous dollop of butter.
Gajak and Rewari
Gajak and Rewari are quintessential Lohri sweets, offering a delightful crunch and sweetness. Gajak is typically made from sesame seeds and jaggery (gur), providing a rich, caramel-like flavor. Rewari is similar, also based on sesame seeds but often has a slightly more delicate texture. Both are considered traditional Lohri treats, symbolizing the sweetness of the season and shared happiness. They are easy to find during the Lohri season in most Indian sweet shops, but you can also make them at home. The ingredients needed are sesame seeds, jaggery, and a little bit of ghee. The process involves toasting sesame seeds, melting the jaggery, mixing, and shaping into desired forms. Once cooled, enjoy these sweet treats.
Pinniyan
Pinniyan are a type of ladoo (sweet ball) made from various ingredients, including wheat flour, jaggery, ghee, and dry fruits. They're dense and energy-rich, perfect for the winter months. The process involves roasting the wheat flour in ghee until fragrant, then mixing in jaggery, nuts, and spices such as cardamom. The mixture is shaped into small balls, which are then left to cool and set. Different regions have variations, including the use of gond (edible gum) and other ingredients. Pinniyan are not just delicious; they provide warmth and energy, making them a popular treat during the chilly Lohri season. They provide a comforting sweetness and are perfect to share with family and friends.
Gur ka Chawal
Gur ka Chawal is a sweet rice dish made with jaggery, rice, and often flavored with cardamom and other spices. The process is similar to making traditional rice, but instead of sugar, jaggery is used to sweeten the dish. The rice is cooked with water, jaggery, and spices until the jaggery melts and caramelizes, adding a unique flavor and color to the rice. Garnishing with nuts adds texture and visual appeal. This dish has a rich, sweet taste and can be made quickly. Gur ka Chawal is another delightful addition to the Lohri feast, offering a comforting and flavorful experience. It is simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser during Lohri.
Lohri Celebrations Complete!
These seven recipes offer a taste of the diverse culinary traditions associated with Lohri. From savory classics like Sarson da Saag to sweet treats like gajak and pinniyan, there's something to delight everyone. Cooking these dishes is more than just preparing a meal; it's about connecting with traditions, sharing joy, and celebrating the spirit of community. Gather your loved ones, prepare these dishes, and make this Lohri a memorable one filled with warmth, laughter, and delicious food. Each dish represents the richness of Punjabi culture and the joy of sharing good food with good company. Enjoy your Lohri feast!
