Ganesh Chaturthi, a 10-day festival, is a time of immense joy and enthusiasm for people across the country. This year it will be celebrated from September 19 to September 28. Much like other festivals in India, it’s an occasion when people relish a diverse range of delicacies. Some even observe fasts and prepare elaborate bhog (offerings) for the deity. From delectable desserts like laddoo and puran poli to savoury snacks like batata vada and more, these delights are an integral part of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. Here’s a full-course dinner menu for this special occasion.

Starters:

1. Kothimbir Vadi
   This is the best option when it comes to festive gatherings and you can prepare it in under 30 minutes. It is one of the most famous Maharashtrian snacks and is made with fresh coriander leaves (Dhaniya). This recipe involves the initial step of steaming, followed by frying to achieve perfection.
2. Batata Vada
   This dish holds a special spot in the hearts of food lovers. Encased in a gram flour batter, this vada is filled with a delectable mixture of mashed potatoes, turmeric, mustard seeds, and green chillies. Serve it hot alongside tangy tamarind chutney or mint chutney.

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Main Course:

1. Misal Pav
   A spicy dish enjoyed with pav, featuring sprouted lentils, a medley of farsan (snack items), onions, and a zesty curry, made from moth beans and an array of aromatic spices. The dish is garnished with sev, onions, lemon, and freshly chopped coriander leaves. It is served with hot butter toasted bread rolls and a glass of buttermilk or dahi and papad.
2. Katachi Amti
   This is a Maharashtrian-style dal that is made with yellow gram dal and is loaded with spices such as chillies, aromatic garam masala, fragrant curry leaves, and mustard seeds.
3. Maharashtrian Kadhi
   Kadhi, a classic Indian curry, is essentially a spiced curd sauce. The kadhi recipe evolves as you move across different parts of the Indian subcontinent. While yoghurt remains the main ingredient, the spices and other components vary, yielding distinct flavours. Maharashtrian Kadhi, for instance, is crafted using yoghurt and gram flour (besan) without the addition of pakodas. It possesses a subtle sweetness and is seasoned with fundamental spices.
4. Steamed Rice
   You can have steamed rice with Kadhi, as it is a delightful combination. For more flavour, you can add a small amount of ghee to the dish.

Dessert:

1. Satori Rava Ladoo
   A delicious option to curb your sweet cravings. Satori is a stuffed laddoo or poori prepared with sooji and milk, sweetened with sugar or jaggery. To enhance its flavour, you can also incorporate dry fruits and poppy seeds.
2. Puran Poli
   It holds a special place in Maharashtrian cuisine, especially during festive celebrations like Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, and Holi. This mouthwatering treat is traditionally enjoyed alongside Katachi Amti, a tangy and flavorful curry crafted using the residual water from the Chana Dal used in the Puran Poli preparation.