Guru Parab, or Guru Nanak Jayanti, is one of the most significant festivals of Sikhism. Sikh people are excited to celebrate their biggest festival, the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, with great fervor and enthusiasm. While celebrating this auspicious occasion, tasting the traditional dishes on the sacred day is a reminder. From the aroma of freshly prepared desi ghee Kada Prasad to the aloo gobhi, multiple dishes prepared for Guru Da Langar offered at Gurudwaras hold a significant place in the hearts of people. Apart from the Langar, many traditional dishes are prepared at home to commemorate the day. Here’s a list of some of the most loved dishes you can prepare to celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti traditionally.
Traditional dishes that you can prepare on Guru Nanak Jayanti
Kadha Prasad
The quintessential conventional sweet is Kada Prasad, which is prepared from whole wheat flour, sugar, ghee, and water. Kadha Prasad is halwa, which is also considered the prominent prasad and without having it, any occasion feels incomplete. Kadha prasad, is a symbol of humility and equality, reflecting the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. It is often distributed among family and friends as a reminder of the importance of sharing and community. The kada prasad is served hot within hands to sangat. It is said that no langar is complete without kada prasad.
Langar Dal (Kali Dal)
Langar ki Dal or Kaali dal is one of the most important traditional Punjabi dishes, a popular choice to prepare during Guru Nanak Jayanti. This hearty lentil dish, made with whole black gram, is known for its rich, creamy texture and earthy flavour. The slow cooking process allows the lentils to absorb the flavors of the spices and aromatics used, resulting in a deeply satisfying meal. Kaali dal is easy to make and yet one of the most delicious dals typically served with steamed rice, roti, or naan, and is often accompanied by a dollop of butter or ghee. This dish embodies the spirit of Guru Nanak's teachings of equality and inclusivity, as it is a simple yet nourishing meal that can be enjoyed by all.
Meethe Chawal
One of the most aromatic traditional dishes is meethe chawal cooked for Guru Parab. The dish is cooked using fragrant basmati rice, ghee, sugar, and an assortment of dry fruits. Saffron and kewra water are also added to the dish to give it a fragrant floral essence. Meethe Chawal symbolizes the sweetness of life and the teachings of Guru Nanak, who emphasized the importance of sharing and compassion.
Makke Ki Roti and Sarson ka Saag
A classic Punjabi combo Makke ki roti with sarson ka saag, perfect to prepare during Guru Parab. Makke ki Roti is a flatbread made from corn flour, while Sarson da Saag is a flavorful spinach and mustard greens curry. This hearty and nutritious combination is deeply rooted in Punjabi culture and is considered a winter delicacy. It is a popular choice for celebrations as it's not only delicious but also symbolizes simplicity and the essence of the Sikh faith.
Channa Dal Khichdi
Another comforting dish is made with rice, chana dal and spices. The dish must be a heaty meal during Guru Parab is served with ghee and yoghurt. The channa dal khichdi should be well and slow-cooked until the dal and rice blend into a wholesome meal. A simple yet nutritious dish is a reminder of the importance of sharing food and promoting equality, which are key values of Sikhism.
Amritsari Kulcha
Amritsari Kulcha is a popular Indian flatbread that you must have during Guruparab. It's a soft, fluffy bread stuffed with a flavorful mixture of spiced potatoes. The kulcha is often enjoyed with a side of tangy and spicy chole (chickpea curry). This delicious combination makes for a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for celebrating Guruparab.
The traditional dishes not only add flavour to the festivities of Guru Nanak Jayanti but also reflect the spirit of Sikhism—simple, wholesome, and inclusive food shared with everyone. Preparing these dishes at home is a great way to honor the legacy of Guru Nanak Dev Ji while enjoying a communal feast with family and friends.
