Chandigarh, Jan 12: Makar Sankranti, Lodhi and Pongal marks the arrival of longer, brighter days and is celebrated across different regions in India with harvest foods, warmth, and family togetherness. From comforting festive bites to seasonal specials, the festivals are all about sharing and gratitude. This festive season, bring families into the kitchen to prepare easy classics that celebrate seasonal produce and regional flavours making festive cooking simple and enjoyable.

1. Golden Sesame Chikki Bites

Quick homemade chikki squares made with toasted sesame seeds and warm jaggery, delivering the perfect crunch and sweetness of Sankranti.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup white sesame seeds
• ¾ cup grated jaggery
• 1 tbsp ghee
• A pinch of cardamom powder

Instructions:

1. Dry roast the sesame seeds until aromatic. You can also lightly toast them evenly using the Voltas Beko Microwave on low power for quick and fuss-free roasting.
2. Heat jaggery with ghee until melted and slightly thick, then add cardamom powder.
3. Mix in the sesame seeds and stir well.
4. Spread the mixture onto a greased plate, flatten, and cut into small squares while warm.
5. Allow to cool and set before serving.

2. Curd Rice Poppers

A refreshing, festive twist on curd rice, mini chilled poppers tossed in aromatic tempering for a balanced Pongal spread.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup raw rice
• ¼ cup moong dal
• ¾ cup grated jaggery
• 2 cups milk
• 1 tbsp ghee
• Cashews and raisins for garnish
• ½ tsp cardamom powder

Instructions:

1. Cook rice and moong dal together until soft.
2. Add milk and jaggery, stirring gently until the mixture turns creamy.
3. Mix in cardamom powder and finish with roasted cashews and raisins.
4. Keep the pongal warm and fresh until serving using the Voltas Beko Microwave reheat mode, making it ideal for family gatherings where food is served in batches.

3. Harvest Veggie Skewers

Grilled winter vegetables brushed with a light honey-spice glaze, celebrating harvest produce and festive warmth.

Ingredients:

• Sweet potato cubes
• Carrot slices
• Baby corn
• 1 tbsp honey
• ½ tsp chilli powder
• Salt to taste
• 1 tbsp oil

Instructions:

1. Store and prep fresh winter vegetables easily using the spacious compartments of theVoltas Beko Refrigerator.
2. Parboil vegetables until just tender.
3. Mix honey, chilli powder, salt, and oil to make a glaze.
4. Thread vegetables onto skewers and grill using the Voltas Beko Microwave Grill Mode until lightly charred and golden.
5. Serve hot as a festive snack or starter.

These easy recipes blend tradition with modern convenience. With Voltas Beko microwaves and refrigerators supporting every step from preparation to serving festive cooking becomes smoother, more enjoyable, and truly centred on togetherness.