Delicious Traditional Dishes to Celebrate Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti is a time for celebration, and while Khichdi is a staple, there are many other traditional dishes that can enhance your festive dining experience. This article introduces six delightful recipes, including sesame laddoos, Puran Poli, and Gajar ka Halwa, that will surely impress your family and friends. Embrace the joy of sharing delicious food during this festive occasion and create lasting memories with loved ones.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 13, 2026, 12:28 IST

Elevate Your Makar Sankranti Feast

Makar Sankranti is synonymous with Khichdi, but you can enhance your festive dining experience by incorporating a variety of traditional and flavorful dishes. In this article, we present six delightful recipes that will elevate your celebration.

Til-Gur ke Laddu (Sesame and Jaggery Laddoos)
When discussing Makar Sankranti, sesame laddoos are a must-mention. The warming properties of sesame and jaggery are perfect for combating the January chill. The delightful crunch of roasted sesame seeds combined with the sweetness of melted jaggery creates a treat that is both delicious and easy to prepare, offering numerous health benefits.

Puran Poli

This beloved Maharashtrian delicacy has gained popularity across India. It consists of a sweet flatbread stuffed with a mixture of gram lentils and jaggery, cooked to a golden perfection on a griddle. Topped with generous amounts of ghee, the flavor is so rich that you won't be able to resist licking your fingers.

Undhiyu

If savory dishes are more to your liking, then Gujarat's renowned 'Undhiyu' is a perfect choice. This mixed vegetable dish features seasonal vegetables, fenugreek dumplings (pakoras), and an array of spices. Although it requires some preparation time, the delightful taste when paired with puris makes it all worthwhile.

Gajar ka Halwa (Carrot Halwa)

No winter celebration is complete without Gajar ka Halwa. Made from fresh red carrots, milk, khoya (reduced milk solids), and nuts, this dish is slowly cooked over low heat to create a beloved dessert. It’s an ideal way to sweeten the day for your guests during Makar Sankranti.

Puffed Rice Laddoos

These laddoos are a favorite among children due to their light and crispy texture. Crafted from puffed rice and jaggery syrup, they are known as 'Lai' in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. They are incredibly simple to make, taking just 15 minutes to prepare on a festive morning.

Pitha or Patishapta

In Bengal, making 'Pitha' is a cherished tradition during Sankranti. This sweet treat, made from rice flour and filled with a mixture of coconut and date palm jaggery, is as visually appealing as it is delicious. If you're looking to try something new this year, consider making Pitha.

This Makar Sankranti, don’t limit yourself to just khichdi. Treat your family and friends to these delectable dishes. Remember, the essence of a festival lies in sharing delightful meals with loved ones.

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