Hariyali Teej Traditional Dishes: Hariyali Teej is a beautiful festival celebrated by women in many parts of India, especially in North India, including states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh. The festival marks the arrival of the monsoon season and celebrates the reunion of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
On this auspicious day, women dress in green, apply mehndi (henna), sing traditional songs, swing on decorated swings, and most importantly, prepare delicious traditional food. Food is an essential part of this festival as it brings families together and adds to the joy of the occasion. Let’s explore some of the most popular and traditional dishes prepared during Hariyali Teej.
1. Ghewar – The Sweet Delight of Teej
Ghewar is the most iconic sweet associated with Hariyali Teej. This disc-shaped dessert is made with maida (refined flour), ghee, and sugar syrup. It is often topped with malai, dry fruits, or rabri. Ghewar comes in many varieties, such as:
- Plain Ghewar
- Mawa Ghewar
- Malai Ghewar
The crispy texture soaked in syrup makes it a favorite sweet during the festival.
2. Kheer – A Creamy Rice Pudding
Kheer is another popular sweet dish prepared in many homes on Teej. It is made using rice, milk, sugar, and dry fruits. Some people also prepare sabudana kheer or vermicelli (seviyan) kheer. It is usually offered as prasad to Goddess Parvati and then served to family members.
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3. Dal Baati – A Royal Rajasthani Dish
In Rajasthan, Dal Baati is a must-have on Hariyali Teej. It consists of crunchy wheat balls (baati) served with spicy dal (lentil curry) and lots of ghee. This wholesome meal is heavy but loved for its traditional flavor and richness.
4. Besan Ladoo – Melt-in-the-Mouth Sweet Balls
Besan ladoos are made with gram flour, ghee, and sugar, and are flavored with cardamom and dry fruits. These ladoos are often made in advance and shared with family, friends, and neighbors. They symbolize the sweetness of the festival and are easy to store and gift.
5. Poori and Aloo Sabzi
No traditional celebration is complete without poori (deep-fried Indian bread) and aloo ki sabzi (potato curry). The spicy and tangy curry with soft pooris makes a comforting and festive meal. In many homes, kachaudi (stuffed poori) is also served with chutney and curd.
6. Halwa – A Quick and Delicious Dessert
Sooji halwa or atte ka halwa is often prepared as a quick dessert on the morning of Teej. It is made with semolina or wheat flour, sugar, ghee, and dry fruits. It is also offered during puja and served to guests.
7. Pakoras – Crispy Monsoon Snack
As Hariyali Teej falls during the rainy season, pakoras made from onion, potato, or spinach are enjoyed with green chutney or imli (tamarind) chutney. Served with hot tea, pakoras add a warm touch to the celebration.
Final Words
Hariyali Teej is not just about rituals and devotion — it’s also about celebrating food, togetherness, and tradition. These traditional dishes not only satisfy the taste buds but also connect us to our roots and culture. Whether it’s the sweetness of ghewar or the spice of aloo-poori, every bite adds flavor to this colorful festival. So this Teej, bring out your favorite recipes, cook with love, and share the joy of tradition with your loved ones.
