Dhania Panjiri stands out as a fasting-friendly, gluten-free variation of the traditional Panjiri, replacing wheat flour with coriander seeds. On Janmashtami, devotees offer it as a sweet prasad to Lord Krishna, reflecting both sensory delight and spiritual purity. Beyond its devotional significance, this recipe supports digestion, steadies blood sugar, and offers sustained energy making it a thoughtful choice for those who fast and participate in ceremonial rituals.
Nutritional and Spiritual Benefits
The star ingredient is coriander which brings more than aroma. It helps cool the body, supports digestion, and helps maintain blood sugar levels, making it ideal during fasting rites. Ghee, with its healthy fats, offers lasting energy, while nuts and seeds add protein, fiber, and heart-healthy fats. Together, these ingredients create a dish that nourishes both body and spirit.
Ingredients You Will Need
According to a reliable source, the key ingredients include one cup of roasted coriander seeds, two tablespoons of ghee, half a cup each of makhana (fox nuts) and grated coconut, a half cup of powdered sugar, almonds, and chironji (or other preferred nuts).
Step-by-Step Preparation
Start by dry roasting the coriander seeds in a pan over low heat for about thirty seconds until they turn aromatic. Allow them to cool completely, then grind into a fine powder. In the same pan, add ghee and sauté the makhana, almonds, and chironji quickly until they become lightly toasted, then remove from the heat. Next, return the coriander powder to the pan, stirring on low until it releases its fragrance. Once the aroma fills the air, mix in the toasted nuts, coconut, and finally the powdered sugar by hand until well combined. Let it cool slightly, then your Dhania Panjiri is ready to serve or store.
Storage Tips and Variations
This Panjiri can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week or slightly longer if refrigerated. For a vegan version, replace the ghee with coconut oil. Optionally, you can add cardamom for a floral essence, or include seeds like chaar magaz or raisins for extra texture and nutrition. If jasmine sweetness is preferred, jaggery can be used as a healthier substitute for sugar.
A Worshipful, Wholesome Treat
Creating Dhania Panjiri is more than culinary activity, it’s a devotional act that brings a sense of calm and purpose. Fast, prayer, praises, and Panjiri together form an offering rooted in mindfulness and tradition. Its warm, earthy flavor, minimal ingredients, and simple steps make it accessible even to novice home chefs, while its health profile offers sustenance through hours of spiritual observance.
Dhania Panjiri is a beautiful symbol of devotion turned into nourishment. Whether you’re preparing for Janmashtami or simply seeking a culturally rich, nutritious treat, this recipe infuses your kitchen with aroma, simplicity, and tradition. Enjoy each bite as both sacred offering and wholesome snack fitting for temple rituals or afternoons with chai.
