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As Holi approaches, preparations for the festive occasion are in full swing across the country. Holi, celebrated with enthusiasm and fervor, holds significant cultural and religious importance, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and the eternal love between Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha. This year, Holi will be celebrated on March 25, preceded by Chhoti Holi or Holika Dahan.

Holi specialties: Bhang and Thandai

During Holi festivities, people indulge in special snacks and drinks. Alongside traditional delicacies like gujia, namakpare, and rasmalai, Thandai and Bhang take center stage as popular Holi beverages. Thandai, a milk-based drink infused with spices and sweeteners, often includes a paste made from the flowers and leaves of the female cannabis plant, known as Bhang. While Bhang is renowned for its euphoric effects, it also boasts various health benefits.

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Simple Bhang recipes to try

Here are two straightforward recipes for preparing Bhang:

1. Coconut Bhang:
   - Ingredients:
     - 4 cups Coconut water
     - 1 cup Tender coconut
     - 1/2 teaspoon Bhang paste
     - 2-4 sprigs Fresh mint leaves
     - 4 teaspoons Sugar
     - 1 teaspoon Lemon juice
     - Rock salt (to taste)
   - Method:
     - Blend coconut water, tender coconut, bhang paste, mint leaves, sugar, lemon juice, and rock salt in a blender.
     - Serve chilled with crushed ice on top.

2. Bhang ki Chutney:
   - Ingredients:
     - 2 Dry red chillies
     - 2 teaspoons Cumin
     - 1 cup Bhang seeds (hemp seeds)
     - 1 Garlic clove
     - Few sprigs of Mint leaves
     - Few sprigs of Coriander leaves
     - 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
     - Salt (to taste)
     - A dash of Water
   - Method:
     - Dry roast the chillies, cumin seeds, and bhang seeds in a pan.
     - Blend the roasted seeds with garlic, mint leaves, coriander leaves, lemon juice, salt, and a dash of water to form a thick paste.
     - Refrigerate for a few hours before serving.

These simple recipes offer a delicious way to incorporate Bhang into your Holi celebrations, adding a unique flavor to the festivities.

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