10 Steps to Embrace Joy: Lohri Special Bhogichi Bhaji Recipe!

Bhogichi Bhaji, as its name suggests, is a speciality from Bhogi in Maharashtra. Bhogi is the name of the first day of the four-day Pongal Event Makar Sankranti festival. That day is the last day of the Agrahya or Mrgara month according to the Hindu Solar Calendar. According to the Gregorian calendar, it is frequently celebrated on January 13th. 

A meal for mixed vegetables called Bhogichi Bhaji honours the local winter harvest. Just churned butter and Bajrichi Bhakri is common accompaniments. Makara Sankranti is almost approaching, so prepare this array of winter vegetables.

Food has always been an important and favourite aspect of any festival celebrated in the sub-continent. While Lohri is the festival during the scenes of winter harvest, it had many recipes that define its festivities(regionally).

For now, here is the recipe of Maharashtrian Bhogi/Lohri favourite — Bhogichi Bhaji.

Ingredients of Bhogichi Bhaji!

• 2 tbsp Oil
• 2 + 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds
• 2 tbsp Roasted Peanut Powder
• 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
• 1 1/2 tsp Red Chilli powder
• 1 tsp Garam Masala
• 1 tsp Coriander powder
• 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder
• 1/2 Potato peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup Carrot cubed into small pieces
• 1/4 cup Lima Beans/Pavta
• 4 to 5 Drumsticks
• 1/4 cup diced Green Pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh or Frozen Peas
• 1/4 cup Green Beans
• 1 tbsp Jaggery
• Salt to taste
• 2 Green Chillies
• 1 tbsp Raisins

Cooking Process-

1. Sesame seeds should be dry roasted until they are a rich brown colour. Keep the roasted sesame seeds aside until they have cooled.
2. To make a fine powder, combine sesame seeds and toasted peanut powder in a blender and pulse 4 to 5 times.
3. Once it has been reduced to a powder, add a few teaspoons of water and pulse once more to create a fine paste.
4. Heat 2 tbsp oil, add cumin seeds, and let them sizzle up.
5. Cook for two minutes after adding the sesame and peanut paste. Add a few water splashes here and there as necessary.
6. Add dry spices, stir, and simmer for a further two minutes.
7. Stir in the potatoes, carrots, drumsticks, and Lima beans. Cover the pan and cook for 5 to 6 minutes.
8. Add green pepper, green peas, green chillies, and green beans once the vegetables have finished cooking. Stir well.
9. When all the vegetables are fully cooked, season to taste with salt, jaggery, and additional water if necessary.
10. Add sesame seeds and finely chopped coriander leaves as a garnish and Serve hot with Bajarichi Bhakari!