Celebrate Guru Nanak’s birth anniversary with these 7 special dishes

Gurpurab, a revered celebration in Sikhism, honours the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of the Sikh faith. This occasion brings people together in devotion, reflection, and unity. A central part of the celebration is Langar, a communal meal that symbolises equality and community spirit. Simple, nutritious, and vegetarian, these meals embody the principles of sharing and humility. In addition to Langar, several traditional dishes are prepared to mark this special day.

Patriot lists seven popular dishes you can prepare for Gurpurab:

Kada Prashad

It is a traditional, sacred sweet served in Gurudwaras (Sikh temples) as part of the community meal (Langar). It is made from a simple combination of whole wheat flour, ghee (clarified butter), sugar, and water. The making of Kada Prashad holds spiritual significance, as it is offered to the Guru and then shared as a symbol of the Guru’s blessing.

Langar Ki Dal (Dal Tadka)

It is a staple dish served during Gurpurab celebrations, particularly in Gurudwaras. It’s a humble yet rich combination of yellow lentils (moong dal) or split chickpeas (chana dal) cooked with ghee, ginger, garlic, onions, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. The Dal is simmered to perfection, offering a warm, hearty dish that is both comforting and nourishing.

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Kadhi Pakora

Kadhi Pakora is a beloved dish of yogurt-based gravy paired with soft, fried chickpea flour (besan) dumplings. The kadhi is made with yogurt, chickpea flour, and seasoned with turmeric, ginger, garlic, and asafoetida (hing) for flavour. The pakoras are deep-fried, and once they’re added to the kadhi, they soak up all the deliciousness, making this a satisfying side dish for the festive meal.

Aloo Gobi

Aloo Gobi is a simple yet tasty vegetarian curry made with potatoes (aloo) and cauliflower (gobi). It’s typically prepared with cumin, turmeric, coriander, and garam masala, giving it a deep yellow colour and a fragrant, mild spice. This dish is comforting and easy to make, and it pairs perfectly with roti or rice. Its gentle flavour and vibrant colour make it an excellent choice for the festive meal.

Pinni (Gur Di Pinni)

Pinni is a traditional Punjabi sweet prepared with whole wheat flour, jaggery (gur), ghee, and cardamom. It’s a wholesome dessert that’s rich in flavour and nutrients, often prepared to honour Guru Nanak’s teachings of simplicity, humility, and sharing. The warmth of the ghee and the earthy sweetness of jaggery make this dish a true delight during Gurpurab celebrations.

Halwa (Carrot or Suji)

Two types of halwa are commonly served during Gurpurab—Gajar ka Halwa (carrot pudding) and Suji ka Halwa (semolina pudding). Gajar ka Halwa is made by cooking grated carrots in milk, ghee, sugar, and cardamom, while Suji ka Halwa is made by roasting semolina (suji) in ghee and then adding sugar and nuts. Both versions are rich, aromatic, and serve as a sweet, festive ending to the meal.

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Gur Paratha

Gur Paratha is a sweet flatbread made from whole wheat flour and stuffed with a mixture of jaggery, ghee, and cardamom. It’s a comforting and slightly sweet dish that pairs wonderfully with yogurt or pickles. The soft, flaky texture and the natural sweetness of jaggery make it a cherished treat during Gurpurab.