Guru Nanak Jayanti 2023: 5 traditional Punjabi dishes that can be prepared on Gurpurab

It’s that time of the year when you are woken up by the meditative sounds of Shabads or the music of ethnic instruments in Prabhat Pheri or the morning processions. Yes, you guessed it right! It's the time for Gurpurab, also known as Guru Nanak Jayanti - the grandest festival of Sikhism. This day commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. This day is celebrated with immense devotion and fervour and is marked by elaborate prayers, hymn recitations, and processions at gurdwaras worldwide. The festivities extend to the community kitchens, known as langars, where volunteers serve free meals to people of all backgrounds, emphasizing equality and unity. Gurpurab transcends religious boundaries, fostering a spirit of inclusivity, gratitude, and selfless service. It is a beacon of Sikh principles—equality, compassion, and devotion to one God—radiating joy and communal harmony across the Sikh diaspora.

In addition to the spiritual observances, Gurpurab is also celebrated with the preparation of special dishes that reflect the rich culinary traditions associated with this joyous occasion. Here are five delectable dishes commonly prepared on Gurpurab.

Also known as Kali Dal, it’s the staple dish of Sikh community kitchen and is a symbol of equality and unity. This dish is prepared split-black urad dal and chana dal, which are soaked overnight and then cooked with aromatic whole spices over a long period, which adds a creamy taste to this dal. This dal embodies the spirit of sharing and communal harmony. (Image courtesy: Instagram/@chefjaspreet.singh)

This is a sacred sweet offering, which is prepared with equal parts of whole wheat flour, ghee, and sugar. Prepared with devotion, it is distributed among the Sikh congregation during prayers. This sweet dish is a sign of humility and respect, and it is offered in a small quantity to the every visitor irrespective of their status coming to gurdwara.

This is one of the most popular rice dishe prepared on the occasion of Gurpurab. Cooked using fragrant basmati rice, ghee, sugar, and an assortment of dry fruits, Meethe Chawal symbolises the essence of celebration and gratitude. People sometimes also add saffron to this rice dish.

It’s a flavourful dish that takes the centre stage in Gurpurab celebrations, paying homage to Guru Nanak Dev Ji. To prepare this hearty dish, chana dal is soaked for 4-5 hours with rice, then cooked with spices in ghee. To increase the flavour, one can also add vegetables like peas and carrots. This Khichdi is slow-cooked until the dal and rice blend into a wholesome, comforting meal.

Last, but not the least, ‘Saron Da Saag te Makki Di Roti’ is one of the most popular Punjabi dishes prepared on Gurpurab. This hearty combination is made by cooking mustard greens or sarson with ginger, lots of garlic, green chillies, and by mixing other leafy green vegetables as well. Once it is made, a little corn flour is added into the saag to thicken the consistency. It’s often paired with hot Makki ki Roti and dollops of ghee.