Celebrate Gudi Padwa the Delicious Way

Decorative silk cloth tied to a bamboo stick with an inverted copper pot placed on the top, decorated with a Swastik symbol, garland made with marigold flowers, neem leaves, mango leaves, and sugar candy, such Gudi can be seen adorning almost every Maharashtrian household as we welcome the brand new year of the Hindu Calendar. 

The auspicious day of Gudi Padwa, symbolizing victory of the good over evil, is celebrated with a great pomp and show. Entire house is decorated and everyone hoists the gudi early in the morning, prays for good fortune and prosperity, and then they share the prasad made with neem leaves. Now you must be wondering, why would one eat bitter neem leaves on such a happy occasion? That has two reasons, one being the fact that neem leaves are known to purify blood and boost immunity and the other being awareness. Ji haan, the bitter taste of neem makes everyone realize that life is not always easy, but when you work hard you achieve success. Don’t worry though, Maharashtrians won’t just feed you the bitter neem leaves on gudi padwa, they have an array of delicious Gudi Padwa special recipes that totally make up for that bitter prasad. So, get ready and make with me the Gudi Padwa special Maharashtrian Thali a reality without any further delay.

 

Ghosalyachi bhaji

First on the list and on the thali goes crispy and unique Ghosalyachi bhaji or sponge gourd fritters. Simply made by deep-frying the pieces of sponge gourd (ghosal/toorai) coated with gram flour batter, these crisp bites make for a perfect starter or siders on your Marathi Thali.

 

Shrikhand -  Puri - Batatyachi Bhaji

Then comes the quintessential Gudi Padwa combo - Shrikhand, Puri, and Batatyachi Bhaji. We all know, Shrikhand is an authentic Maharashtrian dessert made using hung curd. This simple yet absolutely divine dessert tastes delicious when served along with garma-garam puffed puris and typical Maharashtrian style potato sabzi or Batatyachi Bhaji. These three recipes take the centre stage on the thali, featuring an amalgamation of sweet, spicy and fried all at once. 

 

Masale Bhaat - Khamang Kakdi

Next on this typical Maharashtrian Thali we must serve a classic, Masale Bhaat. Just as the name suggests, this recipe is made by tossing rice in some masaledaar spices. Serve it along with Khamang Kakdi (cucumber salad) on the side to add a little bit of crunch to your meal. Ofcourse, if you prefer also serve some aachaar and papad along for an added fun factor. 

 

Basundi

Finally serve a classic sweet dish, Basundi or the sweet thickened milk garnished with nuts to complete your meal. This heavenly treat will get you the festive feeling instantly, making it just perfect for Gudi Padwa.

With all these delicious dishes on your plate, your Gudi Padwa special Maharashtrian Thali will be an absolute winner! So, celebrate this auspicious day with your loved ones in the authentic style, and once again I wish you all a happy and prosperous new year.

गुढी पाडवा आणि नव वर्षाच्या शुभेच्छा !