Dusshera, also known as Vijayadashami, is a time of celebration, togetherness, and, of course, delicious food! This festival marks the victory of good over evil, and while it is celebrated with grand processions and the burning of Ravana’s effigies, food plays a central role in bringing people together. Every festival in India is associated with unique traditional dishes, and Dusshera is no exception.
From mouth-watering sweets to hearty meals, the food served during Dusshera has a special place in the hearts of those celebrating. In this blog, we’ll explore some traditional Dusshera recipes that you can prepare at home to make the festival even more special.
Why Food is Important During Dusshera
Food holds a significant place in Indian culture, especially during festivals. It’s not just about eating; it’s about sharing, bonding, and celebrating togetherness. During Dusshera, families gather for a festive meal that typically includes a mix of savory and sweet dishes. These meals are often prepared with love, following recipes passed down through generations.
Traditional Dusshera dishes are meant to symbolize the prosperity and victory that the festival represents. Offering food to the gods and sharing it with family and friends adds to the festive spirit.
Traditional Dusshera Recipes
Here are some popular traditional recipes you can try during Dusshera:
1. Puri and Aloo Sabzi
A classic combination that is loved by all, Puri and Aloo Sabzi is a staple dish during Dusshera. The soft, deep-fried puris paired with spicy potato curry is a dish that brings comfort and festivity to the table.
Ingredients for Puri:
- Wheat flour
- Salt
- Water
- Oil for frying
Ingredients for Aloo Sabzi:
- Boiled potatoes
- Tomatoes
- Green chilies
- Ginger
- Spices like cumin, turmeric, and coriander powder
Method:
- Mix wheat flour with water and salt to make a dough, then roll small portions into puris and deep fry.
- For the Aloo Sabzi, sauté tomatoes, ginger, and green chilies in oil, then add boiled potatoes and spices. Cook until everything blends well.
2. Kheer
No Indian festival is complete without sweets, and Kheer is a traditional dessert made for Dusshera. This creamy, rich rice pudding is made with milk, rice, sugar, and flavored with cardamom and saffron. It’s often garnished with dry fruits like almonds and pistachios, making it the perfect treat after a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
- Rice
- Milk
- Sugar
- Cardamom
- Saffron
- Dry fruits (optional)
Method:
- Boil milk and add rice to it. Let it cook slowly on low heat, stirring occasionally. Once the rice is cooked, add sugar, cardamom, and saffron. Garnish with dry fruits before serving.
3. Dahi Vada
Dahi Vada is a popular savory snack enjoyed during Dusshera. Soft, fluffy lentil fritters soaked in yogurt and topped with tamarind chutney, roasted cumin, and red chili powder make for a mouth-watering dish that is loved by all.
Ingredients:
- Urad dal (black gram)
- Yogurt
- Tamarind chutney
- Spices (cumin, red chili powder, salt)
Method:
- Soak urad dal, grind it into a paste, and deep fry small portions to make vadas.
- Once fried, soak the vadas in water, then squeeze them and place them in a bowl of yogurt. Top with tamarind chutney and spices.
4. Chana Sundal
A simple yet flavorful dish, Chana Sundal is a South Indian delicacy made with boiled chickpeas, coconut, and a tempering of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies. It’s light, healthy, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- Boiled chickpeas
- Coconut
- Mustard seeds
- Curry leaves
- Green chilies
Method:
- Heat oil in a pan, add mustard seeds, curry leaves, and green chilies. Then, add boiled chickpeas and grated coconut. Sauté for a few minutes, and your dish is ready to serve!
5. Besan Ladoo
Besan Ladoo is a sweet treat made from gram flour, sugar, and ghee. These melt-in-your-mouth laddoos are incredibly popular during Dusshera and can be prepared in advance to enjoy throughout the festival.
Ingredients:
- Gram flour (besan)
- Ghee
- Sugar
- Cardamom powder
Method:
- Roast gram flour in ghee until golden brown and aromatic. Let it cool slightly before adding sugar and cardamom powder. Shape the mixture into small balls (laddoos) and let them set.
Dussehra Celebration in Office
For those celebrating Dusshera at the workplace, bringing in some traditional dishes can create a sense of festivity and bonding among employees. Dussehra celebration in the office is often marked by decorating the workspace, performing small rituals, and sharing food with colleagues.
To make the day special, employees can bring homemade dishes like Kheer or Besan Ladoo and share them with their team. This not only fosters camaraderie but also allows everyone to experience the spirit of the festival together. You can even organize a small potluck where each person brings a dish representing their region’s Dusshera traditions.
If you're planning to host a Dussehra celebration in the office, consider including some of these simple and delicious recipes. It will not only add to the festive mood but also encourage a sense of unity and joy among the team.
Conclusion
Dusshera is a time for reflection, celebration, and togetherness, and nothing brings people closer than good food. Whether you’re celebrating with family at home or organizing a Dussehra celebration in office, these traditional dishes are sure to make the festival even more memorable. From savory snacks like Dahi Vada to sweet treats like Kheer and Besan Ladoo, these recipes capture the essence of Dusshera and the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones.
So, as you gear up for the festival, take some time to prepare these traditional dishes and make your Dusshera celebrations even more special!
