Ganesh Chaturthi 2024: 10 Must-Try Maharashtrian Recipes for a Festive Feast!

Ganesh Chaturthi is an important festival that commemorates the birth of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. Devotees welcome Bappa home in a hope to ward off all negativity and a promise of good times. It is also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi and can last up to 10 days during the Hindu Month of Bhadra

This year, Ganesh Chaturthi will begin on September 7 and go on till September 17. The Madhyahna Ganesha Puja Muhurat is from 11:03 AM to 01:34 PM. The Chaturthi Tithi Begins at 03:01 PM on Sep 06 and ends at 05:37 PM on Sep 07.

Along with vibrant energy and celebrations, food also plays an important role as devotees prepare special offerings for Lord Ganesha. 10 Maharashtrian recipes that are perfect to make during Ganesh Chaturthi

10 Must-Try Recipes for Ganesh Chaturthi

1. ModakModak stands out as the quintessential offering to Lord Ganesha. These sweet, steamed dumplings are filled with a mixture of jaggery and grated coconut, delicately flavoured with cardamom. The soft, melt-in-your-mouth Ukadiche Modak is particularly popular, though the fried version also has its fans. Modaks are considered Lord Ganesha’s favourite, and making them at home is a cherished ritual during the festival.
2. Puran PoliAnother festive favourite is Puran Poli, a sweet flatbread stuffed with a rich filling made from chana dal, jaggery, and cardamom. This dish is a labour of love, with each bite offering a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. Puran Poli is often served with a generous dollop of ghee, enhancing its flavour and making it an essential part of the Ganesh Chaturthi feast.
3. ShrikhandShrikhand is a creamy yogurt-based dessert, that offers a cooling contrast to the other rich dishes of the festival. It is made by sweetening and straining yogurt, and then flavouring it with saffron, cardamom, and nuts, Shrikhand is light, smooth, and indulgent.
4. Sabudana KhichdiFor those observing fasts during the festival, Sabudana Khichdi is a must-have. This dish is made from soaked tapioca pearls cooked with peanuts, potatoes, and cumin seeds, creating a satisfying and energy-rich meal. It’s simple yet delicious, and it’s crunchy texture and mild spiciness make it a favourite during festive fasting.
5. Rava SheeraRava Sheera, also known as Suji Halwa, is another sweet treat that holds a special place in Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. This semolina pudding, cooked with ghee, sugar, and milk, and flavoured with saffron and cardamom, is easy to prepare and delightful to eat. It’s often served as prasad (offering) during the festival.
6. KaranjiKaranji, a crescent-shaped pastry filled with sweetened coconut and jaggery, is a festive delicacy that’s both crispy and sweet. It’s similar to the North Indian gujiya but has its distinct flavour, making it a delightful treat that’s particularly enjoyed during Ganesh Chaturthi.
7. ThalipeethThalipeeth adds a savory note to the festive menu. This multigrain flatbread, made from a mix of flours like bajra, jowar, and wheat, is spiced with cumin, coriander, and green chilies. Thalipeeth is typically served with butter or yogurt, making it a wholesome and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a festive breakfast or snack.
8. Batata BhajiNo Maharashtrian festival is complete without Batata Bhaji, a simple yet flavourful dry potato curry. Cooked with mustard seeds, turmeric, and curry leaves, this dish is a staple in Maharashtrian households. It’s often served as part of a festive thali, providing a comforting and familiar taste that complements the other dishes.
9. Masale BhaatMasale Bhaat is a spiced rice dish that’s often made during Ganesh Chaturthi. This one-pot meal is prepared with a blend of aromatic spices, mixed vegetables, and roasted peanuts, creating a dish that’s both flavourful and nutritious. It’s a great way to enjoy a satisfying, aromatic meal during the festive season.
10. AmrakhandDuring Ganesh Chaturthi, many families also prepare Amrakhand, a mango-flavoured variant of Shrikhand, which brings a refreshing tropical twist to the traditional dessert. Amrakhand is a popular treat during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, offering a refreshing taste of summer in every bite.