Celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi with Savoury Delicacies - A Culinary Delight

As the joyous occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi approaches, it's time to not only offer prayers to Lord Ganesha but also to relish a delectable spread of savoury delights that capture the essence of the festivities. These culinary creations hold a special place in our hearts, symbolizing the reverence for the elephant-headed deity and bringing families together in celebration.

 

In this blog, we delve into a delightful journey through some of the most cherished savoury delicacies that make Ganesh Chaturthi a gastronomic extravaganza.

 

Modak Samosas:

 

Combining the traditional modak shape with the beloved samosa, these crispy delights are filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and a hint of aromatic spices. A fusion of flavors to cherish.

 

Recipe for Filling:

• In a pan, add grated coconut and jaggery.
• Cook on medium heat, stirring constantly, until the jaggery melts and the mixture comes together.
• Sprinkle cardamom powder, mix well, and cook for another minute.
• Turn off the heat and let the filling cool.

 

 

Preparation:

• Take a samosa pastry sheet and fold it into a triangular cone shape, sealing the edges with a little water.
• Fill the cone with a spoonful of the prepared coconut-jaggery filling.
• Fold the open end of the cone to seal the samosa.
• You can shape the top by pinching and twisting to create a small top knot.
• Heat oil in a pan over medium heat for frying.
• Once the oil is hot, carefully slide in the modak samosas.
• Fry until they turn golden brown and crispy, usually within 2-3 minutes.
• Enjoy these delightful fusion treats with a cup of tea or as a unique dessert.

 

 

Rava Dhokla Dumplings:

 

These fluffy rava dhokla dumplings are steamed to perfection and adorned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and grated coconut. An impeccable blend of textures and tastes.

 

Recipe for the Batter:

• In a mixing bowl, add semolina, yogurt, and water. Mix well to form a smooth batter.
• Add ginger paste, green chili paste, turmeric powder, salt, and oil to the batter. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
• Just before steaming, add Eno fruit salt to the batter. Mix gently in one direction until the batter becomes light and frothy.

 

 

Preparation:

• Grease a steamer tray or a microwave-safe dish with oil.
• Pour the batter into the greased tray and spread it evenly.
• Steam the batter in a steamer or microwave for about 15-20 minutes until the dhokla is cooked and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Then, in a small pan, heat oil for tempering.
• Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
• Add sesame seeds and asafoetida, followed by curry leaves and slit green chilies. Sauté for a few seconds.
• Add water and bring the mixture to a boil. Turn off the heat.
• Once the dhokla is steamed, remove it from the steamer and let it cool slightly.
• Cut the dhokla into desired shapes using a knife.
• Pour the prepared tempering evenly over the cut dhokla pieces.
• Garnish with chopped cilantro.

 

 

 

Mawa Kachoris:

 

Indulge in the richness of mawa-filled kachoris, a sweet and savory delicacy that brings out the festive fervor with its exquisite balance of flavors.

 

Prepare the Dough and Filling:

• In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and ghee. Mix well until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
• Gradually add a little water at a time and knead to form a smooth, firm dough.
• Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
• In a separate bowl, mix crumbled mawa, powdered sugar, and cardamom powder to create a sweet filling.

 

 

Shape, Fry & Garnish the Kachoris:

• Divide the dough into small equal-sized balls.
• Roll each ball between your palms to make a smooth ball.
• Flatten the ball slightly and create a small well in the center using your thumb.
• Place a small amount of the mawa filling (about a teaspoon) into the well.
• Gently bring the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching them together to seal the kachori.
• Roll the filled ball lightly between your palms to shape it back into a smooth ball.
• Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat, carefully slide in the prepared mawa kachoris.
• Fry until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides.
• Once the kachoris have cooled slightly, garnish them with chopped nuts, pressing them gently onto the top.

 

 

Masala Poha Cutlets:

 

Transform your morning poha into delectable cutlets. Mixed with peas, potatoes, and spices, these cutlets offer a crispy outer layer with a soft, flavorful center.

 

Prep Poha & Mix Ingredients::

• Rinse the flattened rice (poha) under running water for a few seconds.
• Drain well and let it sit for about 5 minutes to absorb the water.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the soaked poha, mashed potato, chopped onions, bell peppers, green chilies, ginger paste, cumin powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, and salt.
• Mix everything well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

 

 

Shape, Fry & Garnish the Cutlets:

• Take a portion of the mixture and shape it into a small cutlet or patty. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
• Place the cutlets on the hot pan with little oil and cook on medium heat until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides.
• Garnish with chopped cilantro.
• Serve the masala poha cutlets hot with your favorite chutney, sauce, or a side salad.

 

 

Palak Chana Chaat:

 

Elevate your chaat game with a nutritious twist. Palak chana chaat combines the goodness of chickpeas and spinach, topped with tangy tamarind chutney and crunchy sev.

 

Prepare the Ingredients:

• Boil the chickpeas (chana) until tender. You can use canned chickpeas for convenience.
• Blanch the spinach leaves in boiling water for about 1-2 minutes, then drain and chop them.

 

 

Assemble the Chaat:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the boiled chickpeas, chopped spinach, finely chopped onion, tomato, and green chili.
• Drizzle the tamarind chutney over the mixture. Adjust the quantity to your taste preference.
• Sprinkle chaat masala and roasted cumin powder over the ingredients.
• Add a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice to the bowl.
• Gently toss the ingredients together to ensure even distribution of flavors.
• Transfer the Palak Chana Chaat to serving plates or bowls.
• Garnish with chopped coriander leaves for freshness.

 

 

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 Let these traditional recipes bring prosperity and joy to your festivities. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi!

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