Karnataka Style Ellu Bella Recipe (Sankranti Mix Recipe)
Karnataka Style Ellu Bella, or the Sankranti Mix, is a delightful, traditional recipe prepared during the festival of Sankranti, a harvest festival widely celebrated in Karnataka. The recipe has been passed down through generations and holds a special place in the hearts of people during this festive time. It is customary to prepare this simple yet delicious mixture using ingredients such as sesame seeds (til), jaggery (bella), and other regional ingredients that complement the festival’s spirit.
The festival of Sankranti marks the beginning of the harvest season, and the custom of making and distributing Ellu Bella to friends, family, and neighbors is deeply rooted in tradition. It is said that these ingredients—particularly sesame seeds and jaggery—are not only symbolic of good health but are also believed to have health benefits during the cold season. The dish is typically shared alongside homemade sweets and other traditional delicacies, creating a sense of community and celebration.
This recipe is vegetarian, making it suitable for everyone, and it involves no cooking, just a little bit of preparation and mixing. Let’s dive into making this flavorful and meaningful mix!
Ingredients
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Roasted Gram Dal (Pottukadalai) | 1 cup |
| Raw Peanuts (Moongphali) | 1 cup |
| Dry Coconut (Kopra), chopped | 1 cup |
| Jaggery (Bella), cut into pieces | 1 cup |
| Sesame Seeds (Til Seeds) | 1/2 cup |
Preparation Time: 45 mins
Cooking Time: 0 mins
Instructions
-
Roast Sesame Seeds
Start by dry roasting the sesame seeds in a small pan over low-medium heat. Stir them occasionally to ensure they roast evenly. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn, and once they turn golden brown, set them aside to cool. -
Prepare Coconut
If you are using fresh coconut, chop it into small pieces. If using dried coconut (kopra), ensure that it is finely chopped or grated. Set this aside as well. -
Roast the Peanuts
Heat a pan and roast the raw peanuts until they turn slightly golden. Allow them to cool before peeling off their skins. This step adds a nice crunch and a roasted flavor to the mixture. -
Chop the Jaggery
Jaggery is an essential ingredient in this recipe, contributing sweetness and depth of flavor. Chop the jaggery into small, bite-sized pieces so that it mixes well with the other ingredients. -
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the roasted gram dal, roasted peanuts, chopped dry coconut, jaggery, and roasted sesame seeds. Stir everything together until evenly mixed. -
Serve and Enjoy
Your Karnataka Style Ellu Bella is now ready! Store the mixture in an airtight container to retain its freshness, and share it with family, friends, and neighbors during the Sankranti festival. It can also be enjoyed as a healthy snack throughout the season.
Allergen Information
- Peanuts: Contains peanuts, a common allergen. Be cautious if you or anyone in your household has a peanut allergy.
- Sesame Seeds: Sesame seeds are also a potential allergen, so please be mindful of this if anyone in your circle is allergic to seeds.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: This recipe is completely vegetarian and suitable for those following a plant-based diet.
- Gluten-Free: There is no gluten in the ingredients, making it safe for people with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
- Sugar: The sweetness comes from jaggery, which is a more natural form of sugar and can be an acceptable option for those avoiding refined sugar.
Advice
- Adjust the Sweetness: You can adjust the amount of jaggery based on your preference for sweetness. If you prefer a milder sweetness, reduce the amount of jaggery slightly.
- Add Nuts: You can also add cashews or almonds for extra flavor and crunch. These nuts pair wonderfully with the other ingredients and enhance the richness of the mix.
- Store Properly: Store the Ellu Bella mixture in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It can last for several weeks, making it an excellent treat to prepare in advance for the festival.
Conclusion
The Karnataka Style Ellu Bella Recipe (Sankranti Mix) is a beautiful and meaningful tradition that adds joy and a touch of sweetness to the Sankranti festival. With its wholesome ingredients—sesame seeds, jaggery, and a mix of other flavorful components—this recipe is not just a tasty snack but also a symbol of good health and prosperity for the year ahead. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and filled with festive spirit. Whether you’re celebrating with family or sharing with friends, Ellu Bella will always bring a smile to those who partake in it. Enjoy making this classic Karnataka treat and embracing the warmth of tradition.
