Blink And You’ll Miss Them: India’s Winter-Only Foods And Where To Find Them

The changing of seasons is always a bittersweet feeling. While summer has its fair share of fans, there is something about winter that feels particularly wholesome. Growing up in Delhi, winter had a distinct charm of its own. The warm blankets coming out of storage, chai becoming a daily ritual and, of course, the arrival of delicacies that you only get to enjoy for a few months of the year. 

One of my fondest winter memories is my grandmother making besan pinnis. A Punjabi winter favourite, these little treats are loved by people of all ages. Made with gram flour, desi ghee, jaggery, nuts and dry fruits, they are shaped into delicious little rounds that can be warmed up and enjoyed with your evening chai or eaten like a laddoo on the go. And they are just one of the many seasonal treats that make Indian winters so special. Here are a few worth looking out for before the season is over.

Pinni and Gond Ladoos

Continuing on the theme of winter sweets, pinnis and gond ladoos are firm favourites in many Indian households. They feel like a warm hug on a chilly morning and are traditionally enjoyed for their rich ingredients and energy-giving qualities. Made with ghee, jaggery, dry fruits, nuts and edible gum (gond), these treats are particularly popular across North India.

While making a fresh batch at home is always an option, you can find them at familiar sweet shops and confectioneries such as Haldiram's and Bikanervala. You can even have them delivered through quick-commerce platforms when the craving strikes. 

Sarson Ka Saag and Makki Ki Roti 

You cannot talk about Indian winters without mentioning this iconic Punjabi combination. Sarson ka saag and makki ki roti are practically synonymous with the season. Made using fresh mustard greens, the saag is slow-cooked with spices and traditionally finished with a generous helping of ghee. Pair it with a hot makki ki roti, a little white butter and jaggery on the side, and you have yourself a proper winter meal. Look for it on seasonal menus at Punjabi restaurants or head to a traditional dhaba for the full experience. 

In Delhi you can find these at places like Gulatis, Kakke De Hatti, Punjab Grill and more

Gajar Ka Halwa 

Another winter staple that needs little introduction is gajar ka halwa. Made with fresh red carrots, milk, sugar, ghee and a generous garnish of nuts, this slow-cooked dessert is worth waiting all year for. The best versions are usually found at traditional halwais, where it is prepared fresh and served warm. 

This one is very easy to find, literally buy at any sweetshop or make at home!

Undhiyu 

A winter speciality from Gujarat, undhiyu celebrates the season's freshest vegetables. This slow-cooked mixed vegetable dish combines ingredients such as purple yam, green beans, raw bananas and fresh peas with aromatic spices. Visit a Gujarati restaurant or local farsan shop to get your hands on an authentic serving. 

A highly rated place to find the same is Ba Ni Rasoi Garvi Gujarat Bhavan in Delhi