Celebrating Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti, a significant harvest festival celebrated across India, marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara). Celebrated
with great enthusiasm, the festival usually falls on the 14th or 15th of January, and it signifies the end of the winter season and the start of longer days. Each region celebrates this festival in its unique way, but food is a common thread that binds everyone. People exchange sesame seeds and jaggery sweets, known as Til Ladoo, as a symbol of goodwill and harmony, wishing each other a sweet beginning. Kite flying is another important aspect, with colourful kites filling the sky, adding a festive atmosphere. The cultural diversity is visible through various rituals and traditions such as the use of rangolis, bonfires, and the worship of the sun god. Families come together to make dishes like Khichdi, and many other traditional foods that celebrate the new harvest and bring communities together.
Moong Dal Khichdi Recipe
Moong Dal Khichdi is a staple dish during Makar Sankranti, known for its simplicity and nourishing qualities. To make it, begin by washing and soaking one cup of moong dal and one cup of rice for about 30 minutes. In a pressure cooker or pot, heat some ghee or oil, add cumin seeds, and wait until they splutter. Add some asafoetida, followed by chopped onions, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown. Drain the rice and moong dal and add them to the pot, then sauté for a minute. Add about four cups of water, salt, and turmeric powder. Pressure cook for about 2-3 whistles or until the rice and dal are soft, or let it simmer until the rice is fully cooked. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot with ghee, pickle, and papad. This dish is not only delicious but also provides warmth and comfort during the cooler weather.
10 Traditional Foods
Makar Sankranti is also a culinary celebration, with each region offering its delicacies. Here are 10 must-try traditional foods: 1. *Til Ladoo:* These are sesame seed and jaggery balls, perfect for distribution amongst friends and relatives. 2. *Khichdi:* A simple and nourishing dish, Khichdi made with rice and lentils, is a traditional choice. 3. *Undhiyu:* A mixed vegetable dish cooked in an earthen pot, it’s a Gujarati specialty. 4. *Puran Poli:* A sweet flatbread made from gram flour and jaggery, it is a staple in Maharashtra. 5. *Gajak:* Made from sesame seeds and jaggery, it is a crispy sweet treat. 6. *Chikki:* A sweet brittle made from peanuts and jaggery, a popular snack. 7. *Pongal:* A rice and lentil dish cooked with spices, it is a south Indian specialty. 8. *Gur ki Roti:* A flatbread made with jaggery and wheat flour, enjoyed across many regions. 9. *Malpua:* These sweet pancakes are dipped in sugar syrup, adding to the festive sweetness. 10. *Kheer:* A rice pudding often flavored with cardamom and nuts, is a classic dessert.
