Makar Sankranti marks the beginning of the sun’s northward journey and is celebrated across India as
Makar Sankranti, Lohri, and Pongal. In Maharashtra, the festival is celebrated over three days.
Bhogichi Bhaji is a traditional Maharashtrian winter dish prepared on the first day, known as Bhogi.
It features a seasonal medley of winter vegetables along with peanuts, dry coconut, and sesame seeds,
making it an essential part of the festive feast.
As the Marathi saying goes, “Na Khayi Bhogi To Sada Rogi” — one who does not eat Bhogi remains troubled by illness.
Ingredients
- 1 brinjal, chopped
- 1 potato, chopped
- ¼ cup green peas
- ¼ cup carrot, chopped
- ¼ cup papdi, chopped
- ¼ cup French beans, chopped
- ¼ cup tondli (ivy gourd), chopped
- 4–5 garlic cloves
- ½ inch ginger
- 1–2 onions, sliced
- 2 tbsp roasted peanuts
- 1 tbsp roasted sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp sliced dry coconut
- Small bunch coriander leaves
- Oil
- 1 tbsp Kanda Lasun Masala or chilli powder (or Shilpa’s Masala Mill Everyday Masala)
- ½ tbsp Shilpa’s Masala Mill Special Goda Masala
- 1 tbsp Shilpa’s Masala Mill Kashmiri Chilli Powder
- 1 tbsp red chilli paste (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Pinch of sugar or jaggery
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- Few curry leaves
Instructions
- Heat a little oil in a pan and sauté the onions, dry coconut, ginger, garlic, and sesame seeds until lightly browned.
- Add green chilli and coriander leaves, then grind everything into a smooth paste. Keep aside.
- Heat oil in another pan and add the cumin seeds.
- Add all the vegetables, turmeric, and salt.
- Cover and cook until the vegetables are about 60% done.
- In a separate pan, heat a little oil.
- Add the curry leaves and all the powdered spices.
- Fry briefly, then add the prepared ground masala.
- Cook on low heat.
- Add the partially cooked vegetables along with a little water.
- Cover and simmer until the vegetables are fully cooked.
- Adjust the seasoning.
- Garnish with roasted sesame seeds and chopped coriander leaves.
- That’s it! Your Makar Sankranti Special Bhogichi Bhaji is ready.
Enjoy with sesame Bajra Bhakris and a dollop of ghee.
SPICE LEVEL: 🌶🌶
