Holi Feast: Traditional Indian Dishes That Add Color to the Festivities
Posted by Surya Masala on 18th Feb 2026
Holi is more than just a color festival; it is a celebration of unity, traditions, and indulgent food that brings families closer. In India, kitchens are filled with the aroma of festive food as traditional Holi recipes are prepared using ancient methods and selected spices. Whether it is crunchy snacks, indulgent sweets, or cooling festive drinks, Holi traditional food reflects the diversity and richness of Indian cuisine.
According to a 2024 consumer food trend report by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), more than 68% of Indian households have special festive meals during Holi, with sweets and spice-based dishes topping the list. This makes Holi-special food not only traditional but also deeply rooted in authentic flavors. The key to making unforgettable festive food is using quality spices, fresh, aromatic, and perfectly balanced.
In this blog, we have discussed:
Why is food the Heart of Holi Celebrations?
Food has always been an integral part of Holi celebrations. Traditionally, Holi was a celebration of the coming of spring and the end of winter, a period when people celebrated the abundance with healthy meals. Traditional Holi festival recipes are wholesome, energizing, and delicious, just right for the long celebration days.
Spices are also very important. A study published in the Journal of Ethnic Foods emphasizes that the use of spices in Indian festive food is not only for their flavor but also for their ability to aid digestion and boost immunity, which is particularly important during the transition periods, such as spring.
Must-Try Holi Traditional Dishes: Complete Holi Food List
Here are some of the widely preferred Holi special foods:
- Gujjia: Holi is incomplete without gujjia. This flaky, crescent-shaped pastry filled with khoya, nuts, and sugar is the hallmark of Holi. Cardamom and fennel seeds are added to it to give it a distinct flavor.
Tips: Adding freshly ground cardamom powder takes the flavor of gujiya to the next level. According to a study by the Indian Institute of Spice Research, using freshly ground spices can retain up to 40% more volatile oils compared to pre-mixed spices.
- Thandai: Thandai is Holi’s iconic beverage, famous for its cooling effects. It is prepared using milk, nuts, fennel seeds, black pepper, and spices. It is very helpful in maintaining body temperature during celebrations.
Nutrition Fact: Fennel and black pepper, which are used in thandai, have digestive properties. As per the National Institute of Nutrition, India, fennel seeds are beneficial for the stomach, while black pepper increases nutrient absorption.
- Dahi Bhalla: Soft lentil dumplings marinated in yogurt and topped with spices make dahi bhalla a favorite at festivals. The recipe heavily depends on roasted cumin and red chili powder for its distinctive taste. Using good-quality cumin powder helps balance the flavors of the dish.
- Puran Poli: Puran poli is a favorite Holi special food in Maharashtra, made from sweet lentil paste flavored with nutmeg and cardamom. Using warming spices like nutmeg and cardamom makes the dish more flavorful without making it heavy.
Culinary data available from food studies on regional cuisine reveal that nutmeg has been used in traditional sweets during festivities because of its sweetness and ability to aid digestion.
- Kanji Vada: Kanji vada, made from fermented carrot water and lentil fritters, is a Holi food item in North India. Mustard seeds and red chilli powder are essential to its distinctive flavor.
Fermented foods such as kanji are becoming increasingly popular, according to a 2023 food trends analysis by Mintel, which shows interest in fermented Indian beverages grew by 27%, highlighting their relevance even today.
Holi Lunch Menu Ideas for a Grand Celebration
Planning a Holi feast becomes easier with a structured menu:
- Starters: Dahi Bhalla, Kanji Vada
- Main Course: Poori, Aloo Sabzi, Puran Poli
- Desserts: Gujiya
- Beverage: Thandai
A thoughtfully curated menu allows seamless use of multiple spice blends while maintaining harmony across flavors.
How the Right Spices Make Your Holi Feast Unforgettable?
The authenticity of festive foods relies on the purity, freshness, and quality of spices. According to the Spices Board of India, there are more than 75 varieties of spices produced in India, and the quality of spices is an important factor in maintaining the authenticity of traditional flavors.
This is where the importance of authentic spice brands comes into play. Authentic recipes rely on high-quality turmeric, cumin, garam masala, and other spices and spice blends to achieve traditional festive flavors. Premium spices from Surya Masale are crafted to retain natural oils, ensuring consistent taste in every festive recipe. From turmeric and coriander to garam masala blends, the right spices elevate home-cooked Holi dishes into memorable festive experiences.
Tips to Prepare Holi Foods in Advance
- Dry roast whole spices a day earlier for a deeper aroma.
- Store ground spices in airtight containers away from heat.
- Prepare fillings for sweets like gujiya in advance.
- Use freshly ground spices on the day of cooking for the best results.
Food safety data from FSSAI recommends airtight storage to prevent moisture absorption and flavor loss during seasonal humidity changes.
Celebrate Holi with Authentic Flavors
Holi is a festival of joy, and food is its most delicious expression. By preparing traditional Holi special food with carefully selected spices, you honor centuries-old culinary traditions while creating unforgettable moments with loved ones.
Shop for the best-quality spices from Surya Masale and bring home the essence of festive cooking.
FAQs
What traditional dishes are prepared on Holi?
Gujiya, thandai, dahi bhalla, puran poli, and kanji vada are among the most popular Holi dishes across India.
What is the special drink of Holi?
Thandai is the traditional Holi beverage, valued for its cooling and refreshing properties.
Why are spices important in Holi cooking?
Spices enhance flavor, aid digestion, and reflect regional culinary traditions passed down through generations.
