Holi 2024: Foods to expect during the festival
Holi, also known as the festival of colors, is a significant celebration throughout India. It represents the enduring love of Lord Krishna and Radha, and the triumph of Lord Vishnu over Hiranyakashipu. This year, Holi will take place on March 25th, with Chhoti Holi or Holika Dahan occurring a day prior. A crucial aspect of Holi celebrations is the creation of unique snacks and beverages to share with loved ones.
Gujia
Gujias are deep-fried in oil after being packed with a variety of delectable stuffings. This Holi dish, which is mostly enjoyed in Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Punjab, is made of fried dough pockets stuffed to the brim with jaggery, almonds, and khoya, and then dipped in sugar syrup. It's delicious and adds a touch of sweetness to the festive season.
Thandai
One of the most well-liked special drinks during Holi, thandai is made with chilled milk, various dried fruits, seeds, and rose petals. Bhang, made from the leaves of the cannabis plant is one component that is often included in making thandai. Playing Holi with your loved ones after downing a glass of Patiala-style thandai is an experience you should'nt miss having.
Namakpare
The delectable salty fried nibbles called namakpare, or namkin, are primarily associated with North Indian cuisine. This tasty, bite-sized, diamond-shaped delicacy is deep-fried and resembles a pastry strip that has been chopped into smaller pieces. It is essentially made using simple refined flour and ghee, and seasoned with salt, jeera (cumin seeds), and ajwain (carom seeds).
Malpua
This classic pancake is deep-fried and then submerged in a fragrant sugar syrup. It is produced with a batter consisting of flour, milk, and cardamom. Malpua is a favorite dish in the states of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, that is frequently served with a dollop of creamy rabri. Its luscious texture and sweet, fragrant flavor make it an exquisite dessert that is ideal for any celebration.
Puran poli
Puran poli, a delicious flatbread filled with lentils, jaggery, and spices, is a Holi specialty that you must have if you visit Mumbai, Nashik, Pune, or any other Maharashtran region. This delicious delicacy is essentially roti or chapati with a sugar-and-chana dal-based sweet filling. The flavor combination created by the savory exterior and the sweet filling is impeccable.
