Recipes from Maharastra for Dussehra Celebrations

Dussehra is a vibrant festival that celebrates the triumph of good over evil, and what better way to honor this occasion than with a feast? From savory delights to sweet treats, Indian cuisine offers a plethora of dishes that capture the essence of this joyous celebration. Whether you’re gathering with family or hosting friends, these five delectable recipes will not only tantalize your taste buds but also enrich your festive spirit. Get ready to explore the rich flavors of Dussehra with these must-try Indian recipes!

Puran Poli Recipe Tne of the festive highlights is Puran Poli, a delectable sweet flatbread filled with a spiced mixture of chickpea flour and jaggery, making it a beloved treat during this auspicious occasion.

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • Whole wheat flour: 200 gm
  • All-purpose flour: 100 gm
  • Salt: a pinch
  • Water: as needed
  • Ghee: for cooking
• For the Filling:
  • Chana dal (split chickpeas): 150 gm
  • Jaggery (grated): 100 gm
  • Cardamom powder: 2 pinches
  • Nutmeg powder: a pinch

Method:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, mix whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. Gradually add water to knead into a soft dough, cover, and let it rest for 20-30 minutes.
2. Cook the Filling: Boil chana dal until soft, then drain. In a pan, mash the dal and add grated jaggery, cardamom powder, and nutmeg. Cook until the mixture thickens. Allow it to cool.
3. Assemble: Divide the dough into small balls and roll them out into small discs. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center, fold the edges, and seal it.
4. Roll Again: Gently roll the stuffed dough into flatbread (Polis) without letting the filling spill out.
5. Cook: Heat a pan, grease it with ghee, and fry the Polis on both sides until golden brown. Serve hot with ghee.

Modak Recipe These sweet dumplings, filled with coconut and jaggery, are not only a treat for the taste buds but also embody the rich culinary heritage of Maharashtra, making them a must-have during Dussehra celebrations.

Ingredients:

• For the Outer Layer:
  • Rice flour: 200 gm
  • Water: 250 ml
  • Ghee: 15 gm
  • Salt: a pinch
• For the Filling:
  • Grated coconut: 150 gm
  • Jaggery (grated): 100 gm
  • Cardamom powder: 1 or 2 pinches
  • Optional variations: sesame seeds, chana dal, or chocolate for chocolate modak

Method:

1. Prepare the Outer Layer: Boil water in a pan with ghee and salt. Gradually add rice flour, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until it forms a soft dough. Let it cool.
2. Cook the Filling: In a pan, combine grated coconut and jaggery. Cook until the jaggery melts and the mixture thickens. Add cardamom powder and mix well. Let it cool.
3. Assemble: Take a small portion of the rice dough and flatten it in your palm. Place a spoonful of the coconut filling in the center, fold the edges, and shape it into a dumpling (Modak).
4. Steam: Arrange the Modaks in a steamer and steam for about 10-15 minutes until they are cooked and shiny. Serve warm, optionally drizzled with ghee.

While traditional modak is a beloved delicacy during Dussehra, offering a delightful filling of coconut and jaggery, chocolate modak presents a modern twist that's hard to resist.

Shrikhand Recipe

Shrikhand, a luscious and creamy yogurt-based dessert, is a delightful treat often enjoyed during festive occasions in Maharashtra, especially during Dussehra. This sweet dish, infused with cardamom and garnished with nuts, is not only delicious but also offers a refreshing contrast to traditional sweets.

Ingredients:

• For the Base:
  • Thick curd (yogurt): 500 gm
  • Sugar: 100 gm (adjust to taste)
  • Cardamom powder: 1/2 tsp
  • Saffron strands: a pinch (optional)
  • Milk: 2 tbsp (for saffron infusion)
• For Garnish:
  • Chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios): 30 gm
  • Chopped fruits (mango, banana): optional

Method:

1. Prepare the Curd: Drain the thick curd using a muslin cloth or a fine sieve for a couple of hours to remove excess whey, achieving a creamy texture.
2. Infuse Saffron: Soak saffron strands in warm milk for about 10 minutes to release their flavor and color.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk the drained curd until smooth. Add sugar, cardamom powder, and the saffron-infused milk, mixing until well combined.
4. Chill: Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least one to two hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Garnish: Before serving, top with chopped nuts and optional chopped fruits for added texture and flavor. Serve chilled.

Shrikhand is a creamy delight that beautifully complements festive meals, offering a refreshing sweetness that balances the richness of other dishes. Enjoy this indulgent treat during Dussehra and other special occasions!