Haldi ki sabzi, aloe vera laddoo: Pink City readies to serve winter faves

As winter finds its footing across the country, restaurants and homes are readying to serve up delish winter eats. Seasonal food is vital to maintain good health, boost immunity and keep the energy levels up throughout the year. The Rajasthani cuisine also has boasts winter delicacies, known not only for their unique flavours, but also for providing warmth and nourishment.

That garma-garam bajre ki roti or the scrumptious ghee-laden gajar ka halwa can instantly transport one to their childhood. Jaipur has a number of places that celebrate the season with the choicest of winter foods. Here’s a look at some of Pink City’s offbeat and fave fare.




Rustic & nutritious: Makka-bajra-bejad roti

It is the best time for those who relish the rustic makka-bajre ki roti and lehsoon ki chutney. Share food consultants Ratika Bhargava and Riccha Khetan, “Millets like makka, bajra, daliya (with jaggery) are perfect to retain energy and boost immunity. Such is their popularity that during winters, the millets are used not only in every household but also find a place on the menus of hotels and weddings.” Deepak Jain, owner of a 125-year-old eatery, says, “Rajasthan ki sardi mein makka, bajre aur bejad ki roti nahi khayi toh kuch nahi khaya. Sath mein aloo-pyaaz ki sabji aur lehsun ki chutney.” While makka and bajre ki roti is sold for Rs 35 each, bejad roti is available at Rs 25.


Gondh ke laddoo

The high calorie gondh ke laddoo is made using edible gum, dry fruits, and is rich in nutrients and a perfect antidote for the harsh weather. Says Mukesh Sharma, owner of a sweet shop in C-Scheme, “Hamari shop par harroz kareeb 300 customers aate hain. In winters, 60% of our patrons come for gondh ke laddoo. One laddoo weighs 125gm, and we retail it for `80.” Balancing taste and nutrition, these laddoos are one of the bestselling items at this 55-year-old kiosk.


Aloe vera laddoo

Nothing beats aloe vera laddoo when it comes to fighting the winters. An old shop in Sonthali Walon Ka Rasta has been serving up halwas (gajar, badam, etc) as well as aloe vera laddoo is popular for these delicacies, with locals booking orders much in advance. Shop owner Mohan Rawat says, “Gondh ke laddoos and aloe veera laddoos are not available at all shops. Our 155-year-old establishment not only serves these specials to locals, but also caters to NRIs who love to consume them.”


Warming & delish: Haldi ki sabziFor those who want something spicy, explore the kacchi haldi ki sabzi. Unusual and earthy, the dish is an absolute favourite with locals. An old eatery at Sindhi Camp is one of the few shops that sells the traditional dish. Says Chain Singh Rathore, manager of the shop, tells us, “Traditionally cooked with a lot of ghee, haldi ki sabzi is warming (generating heat in the body), making it perfect for the dry winters of the state. Garnished with a blend of other spices, haldi ki sabzi is served hot with chapatis. Its recipe comes from the royal kitchens.”