The main highlight of the Lohri celebrations is the sumptuous feast which features various traditional delicacies - Lohri Ki Thali.
There are several aspects of Lohri that make it one of the most awaited festivals for the Punjabis. Of course, the joy of coming back home and reuniting with your loved ones cannot be overstated. However, as it goes without saying, what truly steals the show is the Lohri Ki Thali. It is an integral part of the celebrations, so much so that the festival would be incomplete without it. And - you'll know if you're a Punjabi - it's not just about the deliciousness of the platter; the cultural significance actually matters more here.
Lohri is here, and we simply cannot keep calm. Amidst the celebrations, let's take a moment and learn the significance of Lohri Ki Thali, and have a look at some of the must-try dishes.
Lohri Ki Thali - a platter packed with traditional Punjabi dishes - aligns with the spirit of the harvest season. According to local culture, this thali is a symbol of prosperity and a way to express gratitude to nature for its harvest season (specifically the crops that it brings). Also, it's believed that offering some of each item from the thali to fire will bring good fortune in the coming year.
And not to mention that the dishes are shared among friends and families, which fosters a sense of unity among people.
Now, Some Must-Try Dishes
Sarson Da Saag - Makki Ki Roti is a quintessential Punjabi meal that literally defines the spirit of the season. Sarson Da Saag is made from mustard greens, while Makki Ki Roti is a flatbread prepared from cornmeal. Together, they taste heavenly and are a must-have on Lohri Ki Thali.
More than its flavors, the dish (read meal) encapsulates the farming culture of Punjab. The warmth of the saag perfectly complements the crispiness of the roti, which you can never get enough of. And it provides your body with an abundance of energy as well.
No festival is complete without relishing some sweet items - and Lohri is definitely no exception. Gajak - a popular North-Indian delicacy during winter - is made from sesame seeds, jaggery, and peanuts. It's not just a delight (thanks to its nutty texture) for your taste buds, but is also rich in something that may keep your body warm during chilly winter months. Hence, no wonder it's a must-have on Lohri Ki Thali.
Gud Chikki is another sweet treat on Lohri Ki Thali - incredibly popular among the kids. Made from roasted peanuts, sesame seeds, and jaggery syrup, the item is a good source of proteins, healthy fats, and energy. Also, thanks to its crunchy texture, it provides your taste buds with an amazing experience.
If jaggery is not available, you can prepare it with sugar as well. And if you don't have the time for cooking, feel free to reach the nearest sweet shop.
There are so many items that it's impossible to include all of them in one article. Besides the above-mentioned ones, you can also go for Aloo Gobi, Murmure Ke Ladoo, Makhan Malai, Gajar Ka Halwa, Chana Masala, etc.
And hey, Happy Lohri!
