In India, January begins not just the New Year, but a new set of festivals too! This winter month is when Makar Sankranti is celebrated, also known as Pongal or Lohri in parts of India. But like William Shakespeare said, "A rose by any other name would smell as sweet"! The name of the festival may be many, but the sweetness of the experience is common.
Speaking of sweets, no festival is complete without some special treats! And since you're going to have lots of kids running around all day, you'd better stock up on some yummies to fill those hungry tummies! Here are some tasty kid-friendly recipes for Sankranti - some are even perfect for little babies!
No Indian festival is complete without laddoos!! For Makar Sankranti, laddoos made of sesame are extremely popular. This version from Ambrosia uses coconut and condensed milk to make them more kid-friendly - yummy!
There are so many varieties of halwa in India, but the ones that are most popular during this season are ones made of wheat and sooji (rava). This Atta Halwa recipe is sweetened with jaggery and is suitable for babies over 8 months.
Vadas are a common breakfast food in South India, and also serve as snacks. This Medu Vada recipe from Raks Kitchen is soft, crunchy and golden - just how Medu Vadas should be! Be sure to have some light chutneys for the kids to dip!
How can you celebrate Pongal without Pongal? This traditional Tamil dish is specially made during this festival, and we have a version that's perfect even for babies! So even your weaning darling can celebrate this year!
A highlight of a traditional Lohri celebration is the bonfire, around which the family gathers and snacks on popcorn, peanuts and traditional sweets. Get into the spirit with these yummy elaichi caramel popcorn clusters from Artsy Craftsy Mom that are sure to win hearts!
Bobbatlu is also called puran poli, and makes an appearance in most Indian homes during festivals. The Chef and her Kitchen has a step by step tutorial to make this yummy classic. Roll it up and let the kids munch on it, with a refreshing drink on the side!
This is the sweet version of the South Indian classic and has nutritious ingredients like moong dal and ghee! So if your little one isn't too fond of the savory version, he might like this one!
Peda is generally a favorite with kids, and when you can make it in half an hour, it's a favorite with Moms too! The Kesar Peda recipe at War and Cheese uses just four ingredients and can be prepared in under 30 minutes!
If the kids are tired of all the sweet stuff, tickle their taste buds with some hot, traditional tamarind rice! Blend with Spices has a lovely mustard flavored tamarind rice recipe, specially for Makar Sankranti!
Finally, we have something that's not traditional, but sure to be loved by the kids! Along with being a festival for kites, Makar Sankranti is also when the Sun transitions into the zodiac sign, Capricorn. So this snack from Meet the Dubiens that features a kite sandwich and a sun orange is perfect!
Now you have enough recipes to keep the little ones stuffed all day! Enjoy the festival with your family and may this Sankranti be one filled with health, happiness and prosperity! Happy Makar Sankranti!
Lots of Love,
