Raksha Bandhan 2024: 3 Scrumptious Recipes to Enhance Your Celebration

Raksha Bandhan is a special occasion to celebrate the bond between siblings, and what better way to make the day memorable than with homemade treats? From indulgent desserts to comforting sweets, these recipes will add a delicious touch to your festivities. Whether you're looking to impress with a Mango Rasmalai Cheesecake or enjoy a comforting Almond Halwa, these recipes are sure to delight. Here’s how you can prepare some delectable dishes to enhance your Raksha Bandhan celebrations.

Mango Imarti (Aam Ke Kangan) Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup urad dal (soaked)
• ½ cup yellow moong dal (soaked)
• 1 liter ghee
• ½ cup lukewarm water
• A pinch of saffron (optional)
• Fresh mango pulp (for serving)
• 2 cups sugar

For the Syrup:

• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon cardamom powder
• A pinch of saffron

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dal Paste: Drain the soaked dals and blend them into a smooth paste, gradually adding lukewarm water as needed.

2. Rest the Batter: Allow the batter to rest for 24 hours. Before frying, mix in the fresh mango pulp for added flavor.

3. Fry the Imarti: Heat ghee in a deep frying pan. Using a piping bag or a makeshift cone, pipe the batter into spiral shapes and fry until golden brown.

4. Soak in Syrup: Prepare the syrup by dissolving sugar in water, adding cardamom powder and saffron. Soak the fried imartis in the warm syrup.

5. Serve: Serve the imartis with a side of mango-flavored Rabri for a delightful treat.

Note: For a traditional flavor, allow the batter to ferment before frying. This fermentation imparts a unique texture and taste to the imartis.

Almond Halwa Recipe

Ingredients:

• ¾ cup almonds
• 1 cup hot water
• ¼ cup roasted rava
• 1½ cups milk
• 4 tablespoons ghee
• ½ cup chopped dry fruits
• ¼ cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons saffron-soaked milk
• ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Almonds: Soak almonds in hot water to loosen the skins. Peel off the skins and grind the almonds into a coarse paste.

2. Mix Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine ghee, almond paste, roasted rava, milk, and sugar. Mix well.

3. Cook: Microwave on high (P-100) for 4 minutes. Stir in chopped dry fruits, saffron milk, and cardamom powder. Cook for an additional 4 minutes.

4. Serve: Enjoy the almond halwa hot or cold, depending on your preference.