Makar Sankranti is more than just a harvest festival; it is a celebration of warmth, nourishment, and togetherness. As winter peaks across India, families come together to cook dishes that reflect both seasonal produce and regional traditions.

At the heart of many Sankranti meals is khichdi—a humble yet deeply comforting one-pot dish made with rice, lentils, and love. From north to south and east to west, every region has its own unique version of khichdi that adds local flavour to this age-old preparation.

Here are six popular khichdi dishes from across India that are perfect for celebrating Makar Sankranti.

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6 Khichdi Dishes to Celebrate Makar Sankranti

1. Classic Moong Dal Khichdi (North India)

This is the most familiar and widely loved version of khichdi, especially during Sankranti. Made with rice and yellow moong dal, it is gently seasoned with turmeric and salt, then finished with a generous spoon of ghee.

Soft, light, and soothing, this khichdi is often served with raita, papad, and pickle, making it an ideal winter comfort meal.

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2. Bihari Khichdi (Bihar Style)

In Bihar, khichdi is a hearty and festive affair. This version combines rice, moong dal, urad dal, ginger, and green chilies, cooked slowly in aromatic ghee with hing.

It is traditionally served with spicy choka, a mashed preparation of potatoes and eggplant, making it both filling and deeply satisfying during cold winter days.

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3. Sabudana Khichdi (Comfort With a Twist)

Sabudana khichdi replaces rice with tapioca pearls, combined with roasted peanuts and mild spices. Light yet energising, it adds an interesting twist to the traditional khichdi spread.

Though commonly eaten during fasts, it works beautifully as a Sankranti dish when you want something different yet comforting.

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4. Bajra Khichdi (Rajasthani Millet Special)

In the arid regions of Rajasthan, bajra (pearl millet) replaces rice to create a fibre-rich and warming khichdi. Bajra khichdi is dense, nourishing, and perfect for harsh winters.

It is usually served with garlic chutney, curd, and ghee, making it both rustic and wholesome.

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5. Ven Pongal (South Indian Khichdi)

Ven Pongal is South India’s beloved Sankranti dish. Made with rice and yellow moong dal, it has a creamy consistency and is seasoned with black pepper, cumin, ginger, and cashews, all tempered in ghee.

This rich and aromatic dish is typically enjoyed with coconut chutney or sambar, especially on cool winter mornings.

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6. Bengali Bhuni Khichuri (Spiced Festive Version)

In Bengal, khichdi becomes a fragrant and celebratory dish known as bhuni khichuri. Rice and roasted moong dal are cooked with spices like bay leaf, cinnamon, and cardamom, along with seasonal vegetables.

Nutritious and flavourful, it is often served with chutney or crispy accompaniments, making it a festive favourite during winter celebrations.

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A Bowl With Meaning

Across regions and cultures, khichdi is more than just food. It represents:

• Gratitude for the harvest
• Practical nourishment during winter
• Simplicity and balance
• Togetherness at the dining table

On Makar Sankranti, serving a warm bowl of khichdi topped with ghee feels like feeding the soul as much as the body—a reminder that comfort often lies in simplicity.

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Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding health or dietary needs.