Makar Sankranti 2024: 5 traditional food recipes you can try this festive season

India is gearing up for one of its grandest festivals - Makar Sankranti. The festival this year falls on January 15, 2024. The festival signals the arrival of longer days filled with abundant sunshine which is also crucial for flourishing crops. The festivals denote the end of winter and the beginning of the harvest season. Makar Sankranti also transforms into unique regional flavours across India. In Punjab it is celebrated as Lohri; in Assam, it is referred to as Magh Bihu. Tamil Nadu and Karnataka observe Pongal and Ugaadi, respectively. 

5 traditional Recipes for Makar Sankranti 2024 Celebrations

Apart from flying kites on the occasion, just like in any Indian festival, food is an integral part of the celebrations. Here are some most popular culinary delights that will make your Makar Sankranti better.

Payesh

Payeesh is one of the beloved sweets consumed across India. It has different names as we travel in the south it is called Payasam, in the north it is Kheer and in the east it is Payesh. The thick rice pudding made in milk has aromatic spices which add flavours and enrich the taste. The dessert also has palm jaggery or gur to give it a slight brown colour and bring sweetness.

Sabudana Khichdi

Sabudana ki Khichdi is a delicious dish of tapioca pearls made with peanuts, potatoes, and a few spices and is usually had during Hindu fasting days. The dish is also gluten-free which is healthy and tasty for people who are health conscious.

Curd Rice

Curd Rice also known as Thayir Sadam or Daddojanam is a popular traditional dish in South India. The staple food of every South Indian household is prepared with cooked rice mixed with curd and tempered with spices and herbs.

Til Ladoo

A quintessential Sankranti delight, Til Ladoo comprises bite-sized balls with warning sesame seeds and jaggery. These sweet treats hold a special place in Maharashtrain celebrations, encouraging the exchange of til laddoos while wishing on the occasion.

Makara Chaula

A delectable concoction of freshly harvested rice, jaggery, milk, chhena, banana and sugarcane, Makara chaula is a staple in every Odia household during Sankranti. After the dish is offered to the gods, it is distributed to all and consumed.