Pongal 2024: 7 dishes that are a must-have on Pongal - Times of India

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Pongal, the three-day Tamil harvest festival, is a time of joy, gratitude, and feasting. As families come together to celebrate the bountiful harvest, the culinary landscape comes alive with an array of traditional dishes that symbolise abundance and prosperity. As we celebrate Pongal, here is a list of seven must-have dishes that enrich the Pongal celebration, offering a sensory journey through the flavours of this vibrant festival.
Pongal (Sweet and Savoury)
The festival takes its name from the iconic Pongal dish. Sweet Pongal, made with jaggery, rice, and lentils, symbolises sweetness and prosperity. Savoury Pongal, cooked with rice and lentils and tempered with black pepper and cumin, embodies the essence of the harvest season. These two variations are central to Pongal festivities, marking a delicious start to the celebration.
Ven Pongal
Ven Pongal, also known as Khara Pongal, is a savoury delicacy that combines rice and lentils, seasoned with black pepper, cumin, and ghee. This comforting dish is often served with a side of spicy coconut chutney and tangy sambar, creating a harmonious blend of flavours.

Sakkarai Pongal
Sakkarai Pongal, the sweet counterpart to Ven Pongal, is a delectable dessert made with rice, jaggery, ghee, and cashews. This rich and aromatic sweet treat signifies the sweetness of life and is a must-have during the Pongal festivities.

Coconut Chutney
A classic accompaniment to various Pongal dishes, Coconut Chutney is a flavourful blend of freshly grated coconut, green chilies, and roasted gram. Its light and refreshing taste complement the richness of Pongal, creating a delightful balance in every bite.
Sambar
Pongal celebrations are incomplete without the aromatic and tangy Sambar. Loaded with a variety of vegetables, lentils, and a unique blend of spices, Sambar enhances the dining experience by adding a burst of flavours to the festive spread.

Medu Vada
Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, Medu Vada is a savoury doughnut-shaped delight that adds a delightful crunch to the Pongal feast. Paired with coconut chutney and sambar, these fried lentil fritters are a popular choice during the festival.
Payasam
Pongal celebrations conclude on a sweet note with the indulgence of Payasam, a luscious rice pudding made with milk, rice, jaggery, and an assortment of nuts and raisins. This creamy dessert symbolises the richness and sweetness that Pongal brings into people's lives.
ALSO READ: Pongal 2023: Importance Of This Traditional South Indian Festival
(Images courtesy: Canva)

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