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With the onset of summer comes Baisakhi, a much-celebrated festival in Punjab and regions like Haryana and Delhi. People belonging to Sikh and Hindu communities celebrate Baisakhi with great zeal and enthusiasm. They dress up in vibrant yellow and orange colours and celebrate the commencement of Sikh New Year. Celebrated on the first day of ‘Baisakh’ every year, this festival marks the harvest of Rabi crops. This festival also commemorates Khalsa Panth formation. This festival coincides with ‘Bohag Bihu’ in Assam, ‘Vishu’ in Kerala and ‘Poila Baisakh’ in Bengal.
Just when we are talking about a festival, a massive feast never fails to make an entry. Punjabis are known for their pompous and grand celebrations so how can their festive treat not be grand? Let us take you through some of the traditional dishes Punjab eats during Baisakhi. Yes, a Punjabi festive feast is much more than just ‘makki di roti te sarson da saag’. These dishes are as desi as they can get and will show you why Punjab is also called gastronomic capital of India by some! Here you go!
Aloo Choliya
If you have been to Delhi, Punjab, Haryana or Uttar Pradesh in winters, you must have seen people eating hara choliya there. Hara Choliya or green chickpeas are known for their nutritional value and go best with potatoes. Though generally a winter thing, the last bit of choliya is also enjoyed during Baisakhi. These green chickpeas are tender and make for a flavourful meal.
Kadhi
Who doesn’t love a soothing bowl of kadhi chawal? And Punjabi Kadhi is one of the most loved kadhi varieties. With onion pakodas dunked into it, Punjabi kadhi is spicy, sour, tangy and too delicious. This yellow delight is a must have during Baisakhi and served best with rice or even parathas.
Pindi Chole
A Punjabi or a non-Punjabi just cannot refuse a bowl of flavourful pindi chole. And when it is Baisakhi, pindi chole has to be there. Also known as pindi chana, it is a flavourful chickpea curry loaded with amusing flavours and Indian spices. It could be served with a butter loaded tandoori roti, chapati, paratha, naan or even rice.
Kesar Chawal
Popularly known as peele chawal, these yellow coloured rice are a must have in every Punjabi household on Baisakhi. Made up of good quality rice, sugar and spices such as saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves and dry fruits, this yellow-coloured rice dessert tastes so yummy that you won’t be able to stop at just one bite.
Ganne Ke Ras Ki Kheer
We have all had kheer and enjoyed it to the fullest. But have you ever had a kheer made up of sugarcane juice? Yes, this kheer is a common delight during Baisakhi and is made up of sugarcane juice, rice and nuts. This dish is slow cooked to perfection and loved by all. Ever tried this before?
So, celebrate this year’s Baisakhi like a true Punjabi and have a great fun!
