Savoring Rakhi With Delectable Delights

The festival that celebrates the cherished bond between siblings, is not just about tying the sacred thread or exchanging gifts; it’s also an occasion to indulge in delectable dishes that make the day even more special. This Rakhi, why not elevate your celebrations with a spread of mouthwatering treats?

Let’s get ready to on a culinary journey featuring three delightful recipes – Aloo Puri, Dahi Vada, and Dry Fruits Kheer – that will add a touch of magic to your Rakhi festivities.

Aloo Poori

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, a pinch of salt, and water to form a smooth dough. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
2. In a pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and mashed potatoes. Mix well.
3. Season with salt and cook the potato mixture for a few minutes. Allow it to cool.
4. Divide the dough into small balls and roll them into puris.
5. Place a spoonful of the potato mixture in the center of each puri and seal the edges. Roll it out gently again.
6. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the puris until golden brown and puffed up.
7. Serve hot Aloo Puris with your favorite chutney or pickle.

Dahi Vada

Ingredients:

• 1 cup urad dal (split black gram), soaked overnight
• 1 cup yogurt
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder
• Tamarind chutney (for garnishing)
• Chopped coriander leaves (for garnishing)
• Salt to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Drain and grind the soaked urad dal into a smooth paste, adding minimal water.
2. Whisk the dal paste until it becomes light and fluffy.
3. Heat oil in a pan. Wet your hands and take a small portion of the dal mixture. Shape it into a small disk and fry until golden brown.
4. Soak the fried vadas in warm water for about 15 minutes.
5. Squeeze out the excess water from the vadas and arrange them on a serving plate.
6. Beat the yogurt with a bit of salt and spread it over the vadas.
7. Sprinkle cumin powder, red chili powder, and tamarind chutney.
8. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve chilled.

Dry Fruits Kheer

Ingredients:

• 1 liter milk
• 1/2 cup rice, washed and drained
• 1/2 cup mixed dry fruits (almonds, cashews, raisins, pistachios), chopped
• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
• Saffron strands (soaked in warm milk)
• A pinch of edible camphor (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the milk to a boil and then reduce the heat to simmer.
2. Add the washed rice and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice is soft and the milk has reduced.
3. Stir in the sugar and cardamom powder. Add saffron strands and edible camphor, if using.
4. Once the kheer reaches a creamy consistency, add the chopped mixed dry fruits. Reserve some for garnishing.
5. Cook for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Remove from heat and let the kheer cool down. It will thicken further as it cools.
7. Serve the Dry Fruits Kheer warm or chilled, garnished with the remaining dry fruits.

Embrace the joy of cooking and sharing these delicious recipes. Aloo Poori, Dahi Vada, and Dry Fruits Kheer are not just culinary delights; they are expressions of love and warmth that will make your Rakhi celebrations truly unforgettable. So, tie that rakhi with affection, exchange heartfelt wishes, and relish these sumptuous treats with your loved ones. Happy Rakhi!