Introduction to Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti is a vibrant festival celebrated across India, marking the transition of the sun into the Makar (Capricorn) zodiac sign. It's a time when people rejoice with their loved ones, exchange gifts, and enjoy a variety of delicious traditional dishes. Here are some of the most popular recipes that are a must-try during this festive season.Khichdi - A Soulful Comfort Food
Khichdi is a simple yet comforting dish that brings people together. It's like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly winter days.- Ingredients: 1 cup rice, 1/2 cup moong dal (split green gram), 2 tablespoons ghee, 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, 1 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 onion (finely chopped), 1/4 cup finely chopped coriander leaves.
- Method: Rinse rice and moong dal separately and soak for about 15 minutes. Drain and mix. In a pressure cooker, add the rice and dal mixture, 2 cups water, turmeric powder, and salt. Pressure cook for 3 whistles. Meanwhile, in a pan, heat ghee and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Add the cooked khichdi to the pan, mix well, and cook for 5 minutes. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot.
It’s yummy and comforting, making it a favorite among all age groups.
Til Ladoo - Sweet Delight
Til Ladoo, made with sesame seeds and jaggery, is a simple yet tasty sweet that's a symbol of good health and prosperity.- Ingredients: 1 cup sesame seeds, 3/4 cup jaggery, 1 teaspoon ghee, a pinch of salt.
- Method: Roast the sesame seeds until golden brown. Cool them down and then grind them coarsely. Melt the jaggery by adding a little water in a pan and sieve to remove any impurities. Add it to the ground sesame seeds, mix well, and then add ghee and salt. Let it cool and form a dough. Make small balls and let them set.
These ladoos are not only a treat for your taste buds but also make for a perfect snack during the festival.
Gift of the Sun - Til Ke Laddoo
Til Ke Laddoo is another sweet that is synonymous with Makar Sankranti. It's simple to make and packed with nutrients.- Ingredients: 2 cups sesame seeds, 1 1/2 cups jaggery, a pinch of salt.
- Method: Roast the sesame seeds until golden brown. In a pan, melt jaggery with a little water, sieve it, and add it to the sesame seeds. Mix well and add salt. Let the mixture cool a bit, then knead it into a dough. Make small balls and let them cool completely.
The nutty flavor of the sesame seeds combined with the sweetness of the jaggery makes it a delightful treat.
Chikki - Crunchy Delight
Chikki is a delightful, crunchy treat made with sesame seeds or peanuts and jaggery.- Ingredients: 2 cups sesame seeds or peanuts, 1 cup jaggery, 1/4 cup ghee.
- Method: Roast the sesame seeds or peanuts until golden brown. Grind them coarsely. Melt jaggery by adding a little water in a pan, sieve it, and then add the ground nuts. Mix well. Add ghee and pour the mixture onto a greased tray. Let it cool and set. Once it’s cooled, break it into pieces.
This snack is a favorite among children and adults alike, with its sweet and nutty flavors.