As the cold winds sweep across Uttarakhand, locals turn to their favorite winter comfort foods. Among them, Pahadi Neebu ka Sanna stands out as a beloved dish. Made from the large and tangy pahadi neebu—a type of lemon unique to the region—this dish is packed with flavor, tradition, and nutrition. It’s a staple in almost every Uttarakhandi household, bringing warmth and joy during the chilly months.
Why Pahadi Neebu ka Sanna is a Must-Try Winter Recipe
Pahadi neebu, with its robust size and sour tang, is the star ingredient of this dish. Rich in Vitamin C, this recipe provides a natural boost to your immunity, keeping colds and flu at bay. Mixed with yogurt, jaggery, and bhang ka namak (hemp seed salt), Pahadi Neebu ka Sanna balances sweet, salty, and tangy flavors beautifully.
While the traditional recipe focuses on pahadi neebu, over time, variations with other citrus fruits like pomelo (chakotra), malta, and oranges have also found their way into the dish. However, the authentic version made with pahadi neebu holds a special place in Uttarakhand’s winter food culture.
The Recipe: How to Make Pahadi Neebu ka Sanna
Ingredients:
1 large pahadi neebu (or Chakotra if not available)
2 tablespoons bhang ka namak (hemp seed salt)
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons crumbled jaggery
Optional: grated radish or malta slices for added texture
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Extract the Neebu Pulp: Cut the pahadi neebu in half and scoop out its juicy pulp. Remove the seeds carefully.
Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the pahadi neebu pulp with yogurt, bhang ka namak, and jaggery. Stir well until the ingredients are evenly mixed.
Optional Add-ins: You can enhance the dish with grated radish or slices of malta for extra flavor and crunch.
Rest for Flavors: Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together.
Serve Fresh: Garnish with more hemp seed salt or jaggery and serve immediately.
Video embed placement: Before we explore the benefits of this dish, here's a helpful video on how to prepare it effortlessly:
Nutritional and Health Benefits of Pahadi Neebu ka Sanna
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients that make it ideal for the winter season.
Vitamin C: Pahadi neebu is loaded with Vitamin C, which strengthens your immune system, essential for winter health.
Calcium and Probiotics: The yogurt provides calcium for strong bones and probiotics to aid digestion.
Iron and Antioxidants: Jaggery is a rich source of iron and antioxidants, boosting energy levels and overall health.
The Unique Flavor and Tradition of Pahadi Neebu
What sets Pahadi Neebu ka Sanna apart from other winter dishes is its contrast of flavors—tangy lemon, sweet jaggery, and savory bhang ka namak. It reflects the culture of Uttarakhand, where simple ingredients combine to create something flavorful and nourishing. Over the years, variations have emerged in different regions of the state, with fruits like pomelo (chakotra), malta, and oranges being used in place of pahadi neebu, but the traditional version remains the most cherished.
FAQs
1. What is Pahadi Neebu ka Sanna?
It is a traditional Uttarakhand winter dish made from pahadi neebu (a large, tangy lemon), jaggery, yogurt, and bhang ka namak (hemp seed salt). It’s known for its rich, tangy-sweet flavor and numerous health benefits.
2. Can I substitute pahadi neebu with another citrus fruit?
Yes, if pahadi neebu is unavailable, you can use regular lemons or other citrus fruits like pomelo (chakotra) or malta. However, for the authentic taste, pahadi neebu is best.
3. How healthy is Pahadi Neebu ka Sanna?
This dish is extremely nutritious, offering a rich source of Vitamin C, calcium, probiotics, iron, and antioxidants—making it ideal for boosting immunity and overall health during winter.
4. Can I make this recipe without bhang ka namak?
Yes, while bhang ka namak adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with regular salt if needed.
5. How should I serve Pahadi Neebu ka Sanna?
It’s best served fresh as a side dish or snack during winter meals. You can also enjoy it with warm rotis or parathas.
Conclusion
Pahadi Neebu ka Sanna is more than just a winter recipe—it’s a taste of Uttarakhand’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you stick to the traditional version with pahadi neebu or experiment with variations like chakotra or malta, this dish will bring a burst of flavor and positivity to your dining table. Its unique blend of health benefits and taste makes it a must-try this winter. So, gather your ingredients and give this nourishing dish a go!
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