Sankranti is the transmigration of Sun from one rashi ( zodiac sign ) to another. The most auspicious among all Snakrantis, the Makar Snakranti marks the migration of the Sun to the Capricorn sign. This marks the end of winter, days get longer, new harvest is ushered, and the glories of Sun, the all powerful and most important of all cosmic bodies is celebrated.
Rice is the staple food among a large majority of people in India. The grain that satiates hunger has a special place among it’s people. The first harvest is given a haloed place. Prayers are offered to the all powerful sun god, who sustains this world.
Food takes the centre stage in any celebration. Rice from the freshly harvested paddy and Date palm jaggery are used to make this delicious ‘Pitha” or cake.
Give it a try friends. This can also be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Recipe : made 35 pieces
Ingredients;
Mung dal ( yellow lentils ) 2 cups
Grated coconut 1 1/2 cups
Heavy cream 1 cup
Date palm jaggery 11/2 cup
Rice flour 3/4 cup
Ghee 2 tbsps
Canola oil for frying.
Method;
Dry roast the mung dal on a medium high flame, stirring all the time. As soon as the colour start to change put the gas off, rinse the dal. Cook in water with a pinch of salt till soft. Use the back of a ladle to mash it smooth. Add rice flour one table spoon at a time and mix well. Set aside.
Take a non stick pan with ghee on medium heat. Add the jaggery, once it melts, add the grated coconut. Mix well. Throw in the cream, keep stirring now and then until the water evaporates and it forms a dough. Put the gas off.
Take a tablespoon of the dal mixture form into a ball, flatten into a flat disc. Seat one teaspoon of the coconut mixture in the middle of the disc. Close the flaps carefully. Dip fry on high heat using canola oil.
Collect on kitchen towel. Enjoy. Some prefer making a sugar syrup and dipping these in it.
Wish you all a happy and prosperous Makar Sankranti!
