Guru Nanak Gurpurab or Guru Nanak Jayanti marks the birth of the first Sikh Guru who laid the foundation of Sikhism, Guru Nanak. It is celebrated with great joy and fervor not just across the Sikh community but amongst all the Indians around the globe.

The celebration is marked by some lip- smacking dishes that can make anyone drool. From spicy curries to delectable desserts, the treats are endless.

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Here are some divine dishes that will elevate your Gurpurab celebration and festivities.

Kada Parshad

Kada parshad is made with whole wheat flour, ghee and sugar. It is offered to all visitors at gurdwaras and has religious significance. Kada parshad is made daily at the Gurdwara with the unique flavor of devotion and served in true Sikh spirit of equality among all. As a sign of humility and respect, visitors accept the offering with hands cupped and raised. Kids in particular are very fond of kada parshad!

Langar Ki Dal

Have you ever tasted langar at your local Gurudwara? If so, then you must be familiar with the rich and creamy Punjabi langarwali dal made with Split black urad dal and chana dal. In gurudwaras they put the lentils with water and whole spices to cook on slow flame in the evening and keep stirring it to become thick and creamy, which adds the flavor. By morning its ready to be served to the devotees after tempering it.

Chana Dal Khichdi

A simple but flavorful recipe made using rice & chana dal. This is a protein rich recipe which is also served in Guruduaras as parshad. Chana Dal Khichdi is a one pot meal which is delectable and easy to prepare. The khichdi with lots of flavors and texture will surely make everyone crave for more. It is a wholesome nutritious meal in itself, which is an added benefit.

Meethe Chawal

A traditional Punjabi Dessert. Long grained, highly aromatic Basmati rice and sugar syrup are the key ingredients of this dish. A saffron colored dish, it is usually served flavored with cardamoms, cloves, cinnamon and kesar. Dry fruits like pistachios, almonds, walnuts, cashews & raisins are added to enhance the flavor of this awesome recipe. I remember this as one of the most
loved dishes of our household when I was a child.

Amritsari Kulche

Crisp Indian bread baked in a tandoor (oven), Amritsari kulcha is a must-have dish from Punjab. It goes well with spicy Punjabi chhole, curd or all by itself. Top it with a dollop of butter for a melt-in-the-mouth dish.

Rajma Chawal

The quintessential Punjabi dish is an unmistakable part of most celebrations. The spicy curry made with kidney beans, tomatoes and onions, mixed with boiled rice can be garnished with coriander for an added punch of taste.

Samosa

This baked savory dumpling is filled with a spicy stuffing of potato, lentils, onions, peas and cottage cheese. It is usually conical in shape with a crisp maida shell and piping hot stuffing. It is served with a tangy chutney that further enhances its heavenly flavor.

Jalebi

Jalebi is essentially a deep fried pretzel made with maida and dipped in sugar syrup. The circle shaped sweet delicacy is the perfect end to any meal and will definitely leave you asking for more.

(The author is Yogesh Ghorpade, CEO and Founder, Uplodefoodie
and Hansveen Kaur, Momspresso.com)