A Taste of the Harvest
The Flavors of Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti revolves around food, celebrating the winter harvest with kitchens filled with the scent of fresh grains, spices, and jaggery. Every dish reflects the season, the land, and the enduring joy of sharing with loved ones.
The Sweetness of Sesame & Jaggery
Sankranti's core culinary tradition centers on sesame (til) and jaggery (gur), a duo that's both flavorful and tied to winter health and symbolism.
तिळगुळ (Tilgul)
These ingredients are shaped into laddoos (sweet balls) or chikki (brittle) and shared with loved ones. This is paired with the Marathi phrase, 'Tilgul ghya, goad goad bola,' meaning, 'Take this sweet and speak kind words,' promoting forgiveness and fresh beginnings.
A Culinary Tour of India
From hearty main dishes to indulgent sweets, each region brings its own taste to the Sankranti celebration.
Ven Pongal & Sakkarai Pongal
In Tamil Nadu, the festival is named after its iconic dish. It features two key types: Sakkarai Pongal, a sweet blend of fresh rice, milk, jaggery, cardamom, and cashews, and Ven Pongal, a savory mix of rice and moong dal, spiced with black pepper, cumin, and ghee.
The Comforting Khichdi
In regions such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and parts of Gujarat, Makar Sankranti is closely tied to Khichdi—a wholesome mix of rice and lentils, often paired with seasonal vegetables and enriched with ghee, symbolizing harvest unity and celebrated as a sattvic, sacred dish for the occasion.
Puran Poli
A cherished treat from Maharashtra, Puran Poli is a sweet flatbread. It features a soft dough shell filled with a tasty mix of cooked chana dal (split chickpeas), jaggery, and hints of cardamom and nutmeg. Served warm with ghee, it’s truly delightful.
Makara Chaula
This distinct raw blend is a classic prasad from Odisha, crafted with freshly ground rice, milk, jaggery, ripe banana, coconut, chenna, and aromatic spices. It celebrates the rich and flavorful essence of the winter harvest.
The Science of Festive Eating
Sankranti's traditional foods showcase ancient wisdom, offering the body ideal nourishment for the winter season.
Benefits of Sesame (Til)
Sesame seeds are packed with healthy fats, protein, and key minerals like calcium and magnesium. In Ayurveda, they are seen as a 'warming' food, aiding the body in staying warm and cozy during chilly winter days.
Benefits of Jaggery (Gur)
Jaggery, an unprocessed sugar, is rich in iron and vital minerals. It boosts energy, supports digestion, and cleanses the blood. Its natural warmth makes it ideal for winter treats.
Modern Twists on Tradition
Though traditional recipes remain cherished, many embrace a modern twist for Sankranti festivities.
Tilgul Energy Bars
Mixing oats, nuts, and seeds with til and jaggery makes wholesome, easy energy bars.
Savory Pongal Waffles
Ven Pongal batter can be waffle-cooked for a crispy, modern twist on the traditional dish.
Puran Poli Ice Cream
Puran Poli's spiced sweetness blends perfectly into vanilla ice cream for a rich, indulgent treat.