Raksha Bandhan Date 2024: Mahurat and bhadra time and Festive Recipes

Raksha Bandhan is one of those rare moments when siblings get to take a break from their hectic schedules and catch up with each other. It is a gentle reminder that their ties still hold strong no matter how far or close they may now be. The thread sisters tie on their brothers’ wrists is much more than an ordinary piece. It represents a protective shield and speaks many unsaid things, like a promise to be there for each other through life’s ups and downs.

If you look closer, Raksha Bandhan is not limited to tying a rakhi. It is a meaningful tradition with deep historical and cultural significance that connects us to our heritage. As we gather to celebrate, it’s the perfect time to shed light on the values of love, respect, and support your siblings.

Well, how can we make this day even more memorable? In this blog, we will discuss Raksha Bandhan’s 2024 Mahurat, its exciting stories, and how it has evolved over the years.

We will also discuss 12 delicious recipes to save you time searching for them and give your celebrations a touch of warmth. Let’s explore ways to celebrate Raksha Bandhan 2024 and create enduring memories for a lifetime.

Historical and Mythological References of Rakhi

When we think about any festival or ritual,  we are likely to wonder about its origins. This is significant as it changes one’s perspective towards one’s own culture. It also highlights the extent to which humanity has grown while maintaining love and respect for each other at the core.

Further, the festival is also called Rakhi Poornima, Nariyal Poornima, and Kajari Poornima and is celebrated differently in different states. There are many stories associated with Raksha Bandhan. However, we will take you through three legends to brush up your knowledge of this beloved festival.

#1. Draupadi and Lord Krishna

Among the earliest poignant tales from the Mahabharata, we find the reference to the rakhi bond. Draupadi bandaged Lord Krishna’s wounded finger by tearing a piece from her saree, which demonstrated her deep affection toward him.

Later, when the Kauravas attempted to dishonour her in court, Krishna provided divine intervention to save Draupadi’s dignity, affirming his promise to safeguard her honour.

This act of protection symbolises the essence of Raksha Bandhan—a promise of safety, love, respect, and support.

#2. The Worship of Sea-God Varuna

Another interesting reference points to Raksha Bandhan being ascribed its origins in the worship of Varuna, the god of the sea. In tradition, Varuna is offered coconuts, people perform ceremonial bathing, and the occasion of riverside fairs take place.

Fishermen often celebrate this festival, known as Nariyal Poornima, where they tie rakhi to their boats and give offerings to the sea.

This ritual symbolises the festival’s connection with nature and explains why one should worship divine forces to seek protection or sanctity.

#3. Emperor Humayun and Rani Karnavati

The tale of Rani Karnavati of Mewar and Emperor Humayun also exhibits the festival’s importance. When Rani Karnavati faced an invasion, she sent a rakhi to Humayun and requested his help. He was moved by her plea and rushed to her aid.

That’s how some festivals transcend family relations, extending to friendships and alliances, where Raksha Bandhan is one.

The Significance of Raksha Bandhan

Although Raksha Bandhan was earlier limited to celebrating the brother-sister relationship, it has evolved to embrace friendship and other community relationships. This expansion mirrors the Indian concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which means that the whole world is one family.

This universal brotherhood has broadened the horizon for which Raksha Bandhan is celebrated. It’s the love and support you receive from all who are close to one’s heart, regardless of familial ties.

When is Raksha Bandhan 2024?

As we prepare for the joyful celebrations of Raksha Bandhan, it’s important to know when this special day falls in 2024. In 2024, Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on Monday, August 19. This date coincides with the full moon day of the lunar month of Shravana, known as Shravana Poornima, which is considered highly auspicious.

The Purnima Tithi Starts	August 19 at 3:04 AM
Purnima Tithi Ends	August 19, 2024 at 11:55 PM

The Auspicious Mahurat for Rakhi 2024

Selecting the right mahurat (auspicious time) is the most important part of tying the rakhi. The best time is the Pradosh Kaal, which occurs just after sunset.

Pradosh Tithi Timeframe

6:56 PM to 9:08 PM

This period is believed to bring good luck and positive energy to the ceremony.

On the contrary, you should not tie the rakhi on Bhadra Kaal, which falls during an inauspicious period and may be associated with negative energy.

Raksha Bandhan Bhadra End Time

1:30 PM

Therefore, the Raksha Bandhan 2024 Shubh Mahurat ceremony is from 1:30 PM to 8:27 PM.

In fact, this is the only time you do most of the things related to Rakhi.

Still, to ensure you choose the right time, check the Panchang (Hindu calendar) or consult a priest who can clarify the exact times for Raksha Bandhan.

Celebrate an Eco-Friendly Rakhi

Celebrating Raksha Bandhan doesn’t have to come at the expense of our planet. By choosing eco-friendly options, you can honour this revered festival while being mindful of the environment. Here are a few basic tips to make your Raksha Bandhan 2024 celebrations green:

• Opt for eco-friendly Rakhis made of cotton,  jute or wood over synthetic ones.
• Show your creativity and DIY your Rakhis using recycled materials like beads or dried flowers.
• Give eco-friendly gifts, such as plants, handmade items, or items made from recycled materials.
• Decorate your space with natural elements like flowers, leaves, and reusable decorations instead of plastic.
• Prepare meals using local, organic ingredients and avoid synthetic/ artificial food colours, use biodegradable plates, spoons, etc and avoid single-use plastics during your celebrations.
• Plant a tree together. It is a wonderful symbol of your bond and an act of love toward the earth.
• Share your eco-friendly practices with family and friends to inspire them about the 3 R’s of waste management: reduce, reuse & recycle, and minimise waste.

Rakshabandhan 2024: 12 Snacks, Sweets, and Meal Ideas

Now that we have examined the historical and cultural aspects of Raksha Bandhan, it’s time to discuss the next important aspect of this festival. No festival or celebration is complete without special dishes. Nothing expresses love more than cooking a meal for your loved ones.

Since it’s the festive season, you should indulge in your favourite foods without feeling guilty. However, it’s also important for you to maintain portion control by tracking your quantities and avoiding overeating.

But one question that always arises is what to cook! 

So, to make things easier for you, Aashirvaad has put together twelve amazing food ideas for Rakhi (five savoury and seven sweet), along with recipes. This way, you can easily plan your Rakhi snacks and meals to impress your guests.

5 Main Course or Snacks Dishes

#1 Chole Bhature

Time:

Preparation time: 10-15 minutes

Cooking time: 60-90 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups chickpeas (soaked overnight)
• Water (for pressure cooking)
• Salt (to taste)
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tea bag
• Oil (for cooking)
• A pinch of asafoetida
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp pomegranate seeds
• 2 black cardamom pods
• 1 bay leaf
• 4-5 dried amla
• 1 dry red chilli
• 10-12 black peppercorns
• 2-3 green cardamom pods
• ½ tbsp dry fenugreek leaves
• 1 cup tomato-ginger-chilli paste
• Red chilli powder (to taste)
• ¼ cup ghee
• Sliced onion, green chillies, and fresh coriander (for garnish)

Method:

• Pressure cook 1 1⁄2 cups of overnight soaked chickpeas with water, salt, baking soda, and a tea bag.
• Cook until first whistle, then simmer for 2-3 minutes, turn off the heat, and release the pressure.
• Heat oil in a pan. Add asafoetida, cumin, pomegranate seeds, 2 black cardamom pods, and 1 bay leaf and saute until fragrant.
• Add 4-5 dried amla and 1 dry red chilli for a unique flavour.
• For the chole masala, blend spices like 10-12 black peppercorns, 2-3 green cardamom, and ½ tbsp dry fenugreek leaves.
• Add the tomato-ginger-chilli paste and red chilli powder, and saute until oil separates.
• Add the cooked chickpeas, water, and salt to taste, and bring to a boil.
• Remove the tea bag, mix well, and simmer for 2-3 minutes if the chole seems too thin.
• Temper with ¼ cup ghee and turn off the heat.
• Garnish with sliced onion, green chillies, and fresh coriander for a fresh finish.

If you have less time to prepare chole masala from scratch, use Aashirvaad Chole Masala directly. A perfect, ready-to-use spice blend makes it so easy to make the recipe quickly, just like restaurant style.

Suitable for all occasions, Aashirvaad Chole Masala will help you create finger-licking dishes that will surely win everyone’s heart!

#2. Samosa

Time:

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of aata or all-purpose flour
• ¾ tbsp salt
• ¾ tbsp carom seeds
• ¼ cup oil
• 6 tbsp water (or as needed)
• ¾ tbsp cumin seeds
• 1 tbsp minced ginger
• 1-2 chopped green chillies
• A pinch of asafoetida
• ½ tbsp red chilli powder
• 1 tbsp garam masala
• ½ tbsp cumin powder
• Salt (to taste)
• ½ cup green peas
• 4 boiled potatoes (fork-tender, peeled, and crumbled)
• 4 tbsp chopped coriander
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Oil (for frying)

Method:

• Boil the potatoes until fork-tender, peel, crumble, and set aside.
• Make the dough by mixing 2 cups flour, 3⁄4 tablespoons salt, 3⁄4 tablespoons carom seeds, and 1/4 cup oil. Add 6 tablespoons of water to form a stiff dough. Cover and rest for 30 minutes.
• Add 3⁄4 tablespoons cumin seeds in 1 tbsp hot oil. When they splutter, add 1 tbsp minced ginger, 1-2 chopped green chillies, and a pinch of asafoetida. Saute for 30 seconds.
• Add 1/2 tablespoon red chilli powder, 1 tablespoon garam masala, 1/2 tablespoon cumin powder, and salt to taste. Saute for 1-2 minutes.
• Add 1/2 cup green peas and the crumbled potatoes. Mix well and saute for 2-3 minutes. Stir in 4 tablespoons chopped coriander and 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
• Roll the dough into ovals, cut in half, and shape into cones. Fill with the potato mixture and seal.
• Fry the samosas until golden brown. Serve with mint and tamarind chutney.

#3. Pakora

Time:

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 15-20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Aashirvaad Besan (gram flour)
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• ½ tsp ajwain (carom seeds, optional)
• 1 tsp red chilli powder (adjust to taste)
• Water (as needed to form a batter)
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• Chopped vegetables (such as potatoes, onions, spinach, or any preferred mix)
• Oil (for frying)

Method:

• In a bowl, mix 1 cup Aashirvaad Besan (gram flour) with spices and water to form a batter.
• Add chopped vegetables like potatoes, onions, or spinach.
• Cook spoonfuls of the mixture into the hot oil.
• Fry until golden and crispy.
• Serve hot with green chutney or sauce.

#4. Shahi Pulav

Time:

Preparation time: 10-15 minutes

Cooking time: 8-10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp ghee
• 2 tbsp cashews
• 2 tbsp raisins
• 2 tbsp almonds
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cloves
• 2 green cardamoms
• ½-inch cinnamon stick
• ½ tsp cumin seeds
• ½ onion (sliced)
• ½ tsp ginger-garlic paste
• ½ carrot (chopped)
• ½ potato (chopped)
• 2 tbsp green peas
• ½ tsp red chilli powder
• ½ tsp garam masala
• ¼ tsp turmeric powder
• 2 tbsp saffron milk
• 3 cups cooked rice
• ¾ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander
• 2 tbsp chopped mint
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Method: 

• Preparation time: 10-15 minutes; cooking time: 8 – 10 minutes.
• First, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a large pan and saute 2 tablespoons of cashews, raisins, and almonds.
• Roast them on low heat until golden brown, then set them aside.
• Add 1 bay leaf, 4 cloves, 2 cardamoms, a 1/2-inch cinnamon stick, and 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds in the same ghee. Roast them on low heat until fragrant.
• Then, add 1/2 onion and 1/2 teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste.
• Saute until the onion turns golden brown.
• Next, add 1/2 carrot, 1/2 potato, and 2 tablespoons of peas.
• Saute for 3 minutes or until the vegetables are cooked.
• Add 1/2 teaspoon of chilli powder, garam masala, and 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric to the vegetables. Cook over low heat.
• Then, add 2 tablespoons of saffron milk and mix well.
• Add 3 cups of cooked rice and 3/4 teaspoon of salt.
• Now, gently mix everything to ensure an even distribution of flavours.
• Cover and cook for 3 minutes or until all the flavours are absorbed.
• Finally, add the roasted dry fruits, 2 tablespoons of coriander, 2 tablespoons of mint, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Gently mix everything.
• The shahi pulao is now ready to be served with your preferred curry.

#5. Quinoa Pulao

Time:

Preparation time: 10-15 minutes

Cooking time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 1½ to 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 1 small onion, chopped or sliced
• 1 green chilli pepper, chopped or slit
• ½ teaspoon ginger garlic paste
• ¼ to ½ cup carrots chopped (about 1 small carrot)
• ¼ cup green peas
• 2 to 3 green beans, chopped
• 1 small tomato (optional, chopped finely)
• 10 to 12 mint leaves, chopped finely
• ½ to ¾ teaspoon garam masala
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
• ¼ teaspoon red chilli powder (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt

Whole spices (optional):

• 1 small bay leaf
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 green cardamoms
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 2 cloves

For Cooking:

• 1¼ cups water (for Instant Pot) or 2 cups water (for stovetop)

Method

• Add 1 cup of quinoa in 3 to 4 cups of water. Rub the quinoa well for 30-50 seconds, then drain the water. Repeat this rinsing process 2-3 times to remove any bitterness.
• Set the rinsed quinoa aside and prepare the vegetables.

Cooking in the Instant Pot

• Press the “saute” button and add 1½ to 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee in the Instant Pot. Add the whole spices (bay leaf, cumin seeds, cardamoms, cinnamon, and cloves) to the hot oil and let them sizzle.
• Add the chopped onions and green chilli. Cook until the onions turn golden, about 1-2 minutes. Then, add the ginger-garlic paste and saute for another 30 seconds.
• Stir in the chopped mint, carrots, green beans, peas, turmeric, garam masala, red chilli powder (if using), and salt. Toss around for about 30 seconds. If using tomato, add it at this stage and saute until it breaks down.
• Add the rinsed quinoa and saute for an additional 30 seconds.
• Press the cancel button and pour 1¼ cups of water. Mix well, ensuring no bits of food are stuck at the bottom.
• Close the Instant Pot lid and set the steam release valve to sealing. Press the pressure cook button and set the timer for 1 minute (or 2-3 minutes for older models).
• Once it’s done, allow the pressure to release naturally. Mix the quinoa gently with a fork and sprinkle lemon juice before serving.

Cooking on the Stovetop

• Add the whole spices in a hot oil over medium heat.
• Put the chopped onions and green chilli, and toss until the onions are golden. Then, mix the ginger-garlic paste and cook until fragrant.
• Stir in the turmeric, salt, garam masala, mint, and mixed vegetables. Saute for about 1 minute. If using tomato, add it and cook until it breaks down.
• Add the rinsed quinoa and toss for 30-60 seconds.
• Pour 2 cups of water, stir well, and then lower the heat to medium once it starts boiling. Now, you can cook uncovered until the quinoa is tender and has absorbed all the water.
• Once cooked, cover the pot and let it rest for 5-7 minutes. Mix the quinoa with a fork and serve with raita or yoghurt.

7 Easy Raksha Bandhan Sweets Recipes

#1. Gulab Jamun

When preparing for festive occasions, it is essential to save time to spend with loved ones. So, Aashirvaad has a solution for you – Gulab Jamun Instant Mix, which makes your job easy.

Total time: Under 40 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 packet Aashirvaad Gulab Jamun Instant Mix
• Water or milk (as needed to form a dough)
• Oil or ghee (for deep frying)
• Sugar (for syrup, optional as per preference)

Method:

• Simply add water or milk to the mix and form small balls.
• Deep fry until golden brown.
• Soak in warm sugar syrup for at least 10-15 minutes.

No celebration like Raksha Bandhan is complete without this loved, humble dessert. Enjoy your yummy, delicious homemade Gulab Jamuns.

#2. Rabdi Kheer

You may often prepare rice kheer, but when the occasion calls for something special, try rabdi kheer. It is a fusion of two classic Indian recipes, combining the traditional kheer with thick, creamy, sweetened milk, also known as rabdi.

Time:

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 70 – 90 minutes

Ingredients:

• ½ cup rice (preferably basmati)
• 1.5 – 2 litres full-fat milk
• Sugar (to taste, for caramelising)
• Optional: nuts (such as almonds or pistachios) for garnish
• Optional: cardamom powder for flavour

Method: 

• Cook ½ cup rice in 1.5 – 2 litres of milk until soft and cooked.
• Mix thick, evaporated, sweetened milk (rabdi) for a rich, creamy texture.
• Caramelise the sugar and add to the kheer for a delightful flavour.
• Use full-fat milk for best results, as skim or low-fat milk may require more time and quantity.
• Cook the kheer and rabdi in a heavy-bottom pan, stirring continuously with a spatula or wooden stick to prevent sticking.
• Serve chilled, adjusting consistency with milk if needed.

If you are looking for a healthy alternative to Rabdi Kheer, then you must try Oats Rabdi Kheer. 

Time:

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 40-50 minutes

Ingredients:

• ½ cup rolled oats
• 1 tsp ghee
• 1 ½ cups skimmed milk
• 1 ½ cups water
• 2 tbsp sugar substitute (like stevia, maple syrup, or jaggery)
• ½ tsp cardamom powder
• 2 tbsp chopped nuts (such as almonds, cashews, dates, or pistachios)

Method:

• Saute rolled oats on a medium flame in ghee until it turns golden brown
• Put the milk and mix continuously until the oats are soft and the mixture thickens.
• Add the nuts to it, and once it is done, you can turn off the flame and let it cool.
• Refrigerate it.
• Add a layer of rabdi to the oat kheer while serving.

#3. Nariyal Barfi / Dryfruit & Mixed Seed Barfi

Time:

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 30-40 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp ghee
• 2 tbsp chopped cashews or pistachios
• 2 tbsp chopped almonds
• 2 tbsp sunflower seeds
• 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds
• 2 tbsp watermelon seeds
• 4¼ cups fresh or frozen coconut (or 1¾ cups desiccated coconut with 3 cups milk)
• 2 cups milk (or adjust to 3 cups if using desiccated coconut)
• 1½ cups sugar
• 1 tbsp ghee (for the mixture)
• ½ tbsp cardamom powder
• Optional: additional chopped nuts or mixed seeds for garnish

Method:

• Dry roast the sunflower, watermelon, and pumpkin seeds in a pan. Now fry 2 tbsp chopped cashews or pistachios in 1 tbsp ghee until golden. Remove and set aside. 
• Mix 4¼ cups fresh or frozen coconut and 2 cups milk (3 cups if using 1¾ cups desiccated coconut), bring to a boil, then simmer until milk evaporates.
• Add 1½ cups sugar and cook until the moisture evaporates. Then add 1 tbsp ghee and cook until the mixture thickens.
• Stir in ½ tablespoons of cardamom powder, transfer to a greased pan, press down and sprinkle the fried nuts and roasted seeds on top.
• Let set for 3-4 hours at room temperature, then slice and leave overnight to set completely.

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Perfect for all your favourite recipes, this ghee adds a delightful depth to your dishes, making every meal special.

#4. Besan Ladoo / Ragi Ladoo/ Til Ladoo / Dryfruit Ladoo

Time:

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 30-35 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sugar
• ⅔ tsp cardamom powder
• 1½ tbsp ghee
• ¼ cup chopped cashews
• ¼ cup chopped almonds
• ¼ cup sesame seeds (til)
• ½ cup jaggery
• 2 cups besan (chickpea flour)
• 1 cup ragi flour (for Ragi Ladoo)
• 2 cups sesame seeds (for Til Ladoo)

Method:

• Grind 1 cup sugar and ⅔ teaspoon cardamom powder to a fine powder. Set aside.
• Heat 1½ tablespoons ghee in a pan and fry chopped cashews until golden. Remove and set aside.
• In the same pan, add 2 cups besan  (or ragi flour or sesame seeds for respective ladoos). Roast on a medium flame for 5-6 minutes until aromatic.
• Reduce heat to low, add remaining ghee, and stir continuously. Roast until deep golden and fluffy (about 25 minutes).
• Switch off the flame and stir for 2-3 minutes. Taste to ensure it’s nutty and not raw.
• Once cooled, mix the powdered sugar and fried cashews until well combined (for Besan Ladoo).
• For Ragi Ladoo, mix in the melted jaggery and fried cashews. Similarly, for Til Ladoo, mix sesame seeds and the melted jaggery.
• Take small portions, roll them into ladoo shape, and enjoy for up to 3 weeks!

#5. Rasmalai

Time:

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 1 hour (plus cooling time)

Ingredients:

For Rabri:

• 3 cups full-fat milk
• A pinch of saffron
• ½ cup sugar

For Chenna:

• 5 cups full-fat milk
• 2-3 tbsp lemon juice, citric acid, or vinegar (for curdling)
• Ice water (to keep chenna soft)

For Kneading Chenna:

• ¼ cup sugar (for sweetening chenna)

For Sugar Syrup:

• 3½ cups water
• 1 cup sugar
• ¼ tbsp cardamom powder

Method:

Make Rabri

• Boil 3 cups of milk in a heavy-bottom pot.
• Add saffron and ½ cup sugar when it boils.
• Stir every 2-3 minutes until the milk thickens and reduces by half. Set aside to cool.

Make Chenna

• Boil 5 cups of milk, then turn off the heat.
• Add lemon juice, citric, or vinegar and stir until the milk curdles.
• Pour ice water to keep the chenna soft, then drain using a muslin cloth.
• Rinse under cold water, squeeze out excess whey, and hang for 45 minutes.

Knead Chenna

• Knead the chenna for 3-5 minutes until smooth and non-sticky.
• Shape into 12 equal balls and flatten them into discs.
• Prepare Sugar Syrup with 3½ cups of water and 1 cup of sugar.
• Add ¼ tablespoons of cardamom powder and bring to a rapid boil.

Cook Rasmalai

• Gently add the chenna discs to the boiling syrup.
• Cover and cook on medium-high heat for 9-10 minutes.
• Turn off the heat and let them sit covered for 20 minutes.

Assemble Rasmalai

• Remove discs from the syrup and gently squeeze out excess syrup.
• Add them to half of the warm rabdi and let rest for 3-4 hours.
• Pour the chilled rabdi over the ras malai before serving.
• Garnish with chopped nuts, and enjoy!

#6. Seviyan Payasam

Time:

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 20-25 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp ghee
• 12-15 cashew nuts
• 8-10 raisins
• 4 cups milk
• ¾ cup Aashirvaad Roasted Vermicelli
• ½ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp cardamom powder

Method:

• Fry 12-15 cashew nuts in 1 tablespoon of ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan. Then, add 8-10 raisins and saute until plump. Remove and set aside.
• Pour in 4 cups of milk and boil over low to medium heat.
• Add ¾ cups of Aashirvaad Roasted Vermicelli to the boiling milk. Stir continuously to prevent lumps or sticking, and cook until the vermicelli is soft.
• Stir in ½ cup sugar and cook for 3-5 minutes until the payasam thickens.
• Add ½ teaspoon cardamom powder, mix well, and remove from heat.
• Serve warm or chilled, garnished with fried nuts and raisins.

#7. Date Rolls

Time:

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough:

• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ⅓ cup (65 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour (maida) (or almond or oats flour)
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling:

• 1½ cups (200 g) Medjool dates (or similar)
• ¾ cup (100 g) walnuts (or any nuts of your choice)

For Egg Wash:

• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp water

Instructions

For Cookie Dough

• Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
• Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
• In a separate bowl, mix almond or oats flour or all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, combining until just mixed. Avoid overmixing.
• Divide the dough into two portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes or overnight.

Prepare the Filling

• Stuffing Method 1: Make a slit in each date, remove the seed, and insert a piece of walnut into the center. Keep the filling slim to avoid bulky cookies.
• Stuffing Method 2: Alternatively, mash the dates and walnuts in a food processor until coarse. Form small marble-sized balls into sausages similar to the size of a date.

Assemble and Bake

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Working with one portion of the chilled dough, roll it out to about ¼ inch thick.
• Cut the dough into 2-inch strips. Wrap each date with a strip of dough, ensuring it overlaps at the bottom to prevent opening.
• Arrange the wrapped cookies on a parchment-lined baking tray, seam side down. Refrigerate the stuffed cookies while you continue with the remaining dough.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush each cookie with the egg wash.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the tops are lightly golden.
• Leave the cookies for 10 minutes to cool on the baking tray before you transfer them to cool completely.

Other Healthy Festive Food Options for Raksha Bandhan

Festivals bring the joy of eating, but if you are conscious of what to eat and what not to eat, then that worry is definitely not part of this celebration. This is why we have brought you healthier options for your festive menu.

The following table presents a selection of nutritious Indian dishes, categorised into main courses, snacks, and desserts. Each dish is carefully chosen to balance nutrients, making your Raksha Bandhan celebrations enjoyable, nutritious, and absolutely guilt-free. 

Snacks	Main Course	Dessert
Broccoli Cutlets	Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Roti	Kesar Mango Phirni
Baked Sweet Potato Chips	Vegetable Stew	Coconut Chia Seed Pudding
Baked Vegetable Samosa	Lauki Kofta Curry	Fruit Salad with Honey and Mint
Hara Bhara Kabab	Daal Makhani	Ragi Ladoo
Oats Chivda	Brown Rice Pulav or Khichdi	Fruit Custard
Baked Vegetable Spring Rolls	Rajma Salad	Tender Coconut Phirni
Mixed Seeds Chaat	Methi Thepla	Mango Shrikhand
Cucumber and Hummus Sandwiches	Stuffed Bell Peppers	Anjeer ki Barfi
Masala Peanuts	Vegetable Biryani	Almond Malai Kulfi
Paneer and Spinach Rolls	Palak Paneer	Ragi Chocolate Balls

How can we eat healthy during the festive season?

Eating healthy during the festive season is entirely possible with a few mindful choices. Here are some tips to help you maintain a balanced diet while enjoying the celebrations:

1. Before the festivities begin, plan your meals and snacks. This way, you can include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
2. When you serve yourself, use smaller plates to help control your portions. This allows you to enjoy a variety of dishes without overeating.
3. When available, opt for healthier options. For example, select grilled or baked dishes instead of fried ones or protein-rich foods like lentils or chickpeas.
4. Choose herbal teas instead of sugary drinks. 
5. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
6. Include physical activity in your holiday plans. Whether it’s a family walk after dinner or a fun game, staying active helps balance out indulgences.
7. Pay attention to your hunger cues. Chew slowly and stop when you feel satisfied, not stuffed.

What food do we typically eat on Raksha Bandhan? 

Here are some traditional Indian dishes that are commonly enjoyed during Raksha Bandhan celebrations:

• Kheer – A creamy payasam (pudding) made with milk and sugar, cardamom, and saffron
• Besan Ladoo – Soft, melt-in-your-mouth ladoos made from chickpea flour, ghee, and sugar
• Mysore Pak – A soft, fudgy sweet made with gram flour, sugar, and ghee
• Kaju Katli – Delicate diamond-shaped sweets made from cashews and sugar
• Chole Bhature – Spicy chickpea curry (chole) served with fried flatbread (bhature)
• Samosa Chaat – Crispy fried samosas topped with yoghurt, tamarind chutney, and spices
• Aloo Chaat – A tangy and spicy snack made with boiled potatoes, onions, chutneys, and spices
• Dahi Bhalla Papdi Chaat – Soft lentil fritters (dahi vada or bhalla) in yoghurt, chutneys, and sev (crunchy noodles)

How can I surprise my brother on rakhi?

Here are some thoughtful ways to surprise your brother on Raksha Bandhan:

• If you’re far apart, arrange a surprise video call with family members who can’t be there in person to make him feel connected and loved.
• Prepare his favourite dish to show your love.
• Gift him tickets to a sports event or a weekend getaway.
• Create a fun scavenger hunt that leads him to his Rakhi gift to add an element of surprise.

The Takeaway

The festival of Raksha Bandhan represents unparalleled love, care, and respect. Yet, at the same time, it says more: it is a universal message of brotherhood and sisterhood. The festival teaches us to strive for good thoughts, words, and deeds. In today’s world, where divisions often overshadow unity, Raksha Bandhan reminds us that the best way forward will always be through connections and celebrating the ties that bind us.

As we wrap up our exploration of Raksha Bandhan, it’s clear that this festival is not just about the rituals but also about celebrating the bonds that tie us together. Understanding its historical significance and incorporating healthy, delicious food into our celebrations can create a truly memorable experience for our family and friends.

If you have any diet or health-related queries, please consult Aashirvaad’s Dietician. Remember, the essence of Raksha Bandhan lies in nurturing relationships and embracing the spirit of love and protection.

Therefore, on this fine affair, get ready with long-lasting memories and some sweet treats that can make your Raksha Bandhan day even more special.

Frequently Asked Questions