As the winter chill sets in across North India, a familiar and comforting ritual begins in kitchens. The air fills with the aroma of nuts being chopped, edible gum (gond) crackling in ghee, and various flours being carefully roasted. This heralds the making of Panjiri, a traditional winter snack cherished for its ability to provide warmth and essential nutrients during the cold months.
Why Panjiri is a Winter Superfood
Consumed traditionally to combat the cold, Panjiri's magic lies in its ingredient synergy. The use of ghee, almonds, and whole wheat is believed to help the body generate internal heat. This energy-dense food is rich in calories, providing much-needed fuel on gloomy days. Moreover, the nuts and seeds offer a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, collectively working to strengthen the immune system. Here are eight delightful variations you can prepare at home this season.
1. Traditional Atta Panjiri
The classic version starts with roasting whole wheat flour in ghee until it achieves a golden-brown hue. Separately, an assortment of chopped nuts like almonds, peanuts, and walnuts are roasted. These are mixed into the flour along with powdered jaggery or sugar. Stored in an airtight container, it pairs perfectly with warm milk.
2. Dhania Panjiri
Believed to be a favourite of Lord Krishna, this variant centres on coriander seeds. Dry roast the seeds, blend them into a fine powder, and then sauté it in ghee. Once slightly cooled, mix in roasted coconut, makhana, almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and your choice of sweetener.
3. Gond Panjiri
A renowned winter warmer, this recipe involves roasting edible gum in ghee before powdering it. In the same pan, roast whole wheat flour with ghee. After cooling, combine the flour with the powdered gond, fried nuts (almonds, walnuts, pistachios), a pinch of cardamom powder, and powdered sugar or jaggery.
4. Oats and Dry Fruit Panjiri
This flour-free option is packed with quick nutrition. Roast a mix of seeds, nuts, and oats in ghee. To this, add powdered sugar or jaggery. Store the mixture in a jar for a healthy, ready-to-eat munching option.
5. Besan Panjiri
Made with gram flour, this Panjiri incorporates warming spices like cinnamon and cardamom alongside chopped nuts. Roast besan in ghee, then add the powdered spices and roasted nuts. Sweeten with powdered jaggery or sugar. It is known for being easy to digest, supporting metabolism, and is suitable for children's diets.
6. Makhana Panjiri
Light yet nourishing, this recipe uses ghee-roasted makhana (fox nuts) as the base. Add roasted edible gum powder and nuts like almonds, cashews, and walnuts. Sweeten to taste. Its gentle nature makes it ideal for consumption by all age groups.
7. Ragi Panjiri
This version is a boon for bone health and satiety, thanks to ragi's high calcium and fibre content. Roast ragi flour in ghee and separately roast nuts like almonds, cashews, and walnuts. Combine them, add a pinch of cinnamon and cardamom powder, and sweeten as preferred before storing.
8. Moong Dal Panjiri
A protein-rich and wholesome choice for building winter strength and stamina. Simply roast moong dal until aromatic, let it cool, and blend into a powder. Cook this powder in ghee, add your choice of roasted nuts, and finally, mix in powdered jaggery or sugar before storing.
Embrace the Winter Warmth
Each of these eight Panjiri types offers a unique blend of taste and tradition, turning the simple act of snacking into a nourishing winter ritual. By incorporating these recipes, you can enjoy the season's flavours while giving your body the warmth and vitality it needs. So, this winter, bring the age-old wisdom of your kitchen to life with these wholesome concoctions.
