‘Ellu Bella Tindu Olle Maathu Aadu.’ Kerala’s neighbouring state Karnataka celebrates the festival of Makar Sankranti saying these words, as they share a plate of the snack ‘Ellu bella’ with their loved ones. The wish just means ‘Eat sesame seeds and jaggery, speak good words. Just like many other winter festival preparations, sesame aka ‘ellu’ is an important ingredient in this snack too. It also has roasted peanuts, finely chopped dry coconut, and other ingredients. Kerala doesn't celebrate Makar Sankranti much, but if you are in a festive mood, prepare the simple dish and share it with your dear and near in the spirit of unity in diversity.

Ingredients
1 cup white sesame seeds
1/4 tsp cardamom powder
1/4 cup fried gram
1/4 cup chopped dried dates
1/4 cup roasted chana dal
1 cup roasted, crunchy peanuts (skin removed)
1/2 cup finely chopped dry coconut
1 cup grated jaggery
1/4 cup chopped jaggery pieces

Preparation
In a pan, dry roast sesame seeds on low-medium heat
Once they turn golden brown, set aside to cool
Finely chop the dry coconut
Chop jaggery and dates into small pieces
In a bowl, mix sesame seeds, roasted peanuts, chopped dry coconut, grated jaggery, chopped jaggery pieces, fried gram, chopped dried dates, roasted chana dal, and cardamom powder well to distribute flavours evenly
Add jaggery and cardamom to the mix and serve

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