As we enter the month of September  it marks the beginning of the festive season in India, Ganesh Chaturti, Onam, Navaratri, Dasshera, Diwali, Christmas to name a few. The festivity brings with it loads of family time, sumptuous food, sweets, new clothes, jewelry and loads of love

We recently celebrated the annual Harvest festival in the state of Kerala in India, Onam

Onam is celebrated for 10 days to commemorate the home coming of the great king Mahabali. It falls on the 22nd nakshatra Thiruvonam in the Malayalam calendar month of Chingam, which in Gregorian calendar overlaps with August–September.

It is said that Mahabali was given a boon by Lord Vishnu that he could return to the lands he ruled once every year to visit his people.

The 10th day is last day of Mahabali’s stay which falls on the 22nd Nakshatra Thiruvonam. It’s a day when the people prepare for Mahabalis departure back to heavenly abode.

On this day keralites visit the temple in the morning, wear new clothes and prepare a nine-course vegetarian Onasadya feast.

One of my favorite meals which comprises of Banana chips, Sharkaraveratti (Fried pieces of banana coated with jaggery),Pappadam, pickle, sambhar, ishtu, avial, pachadi, toran (any dry vegetable like cabbage, cauliflower), rice, yogurt or butter milk and you could keep adding dishes..

Sharing one of my favorite recipes and the most easiest of all..Ishtu

This recipe is perfect for 2 persons

All you need is one potato one onion some ginger, green Chili, kadipata (curry leaves) and coconut milk

Finely cut the onions and cut small to medium size potatoes. Feel free to add other vegetables like carrot or beans.

In a cooker heat some oil and add finely chopped ginger and onion. Fry the onion till they are translucent. Add the potatoes and green chilli. Add some water salt and black pepper. After 2 whistles open the cooker. You will have a stew ready.

Now add some curry leaves and coconut milk and give it a light boil for a min.

Ishtu is ready. Before serving season it with mustard seeds and curry leaves.

Enjoy the festivities…