12 Indian Recipes for Ringing in Holi, the Hindu Festival of Colors

As the warmer months roll in and spring is in bloom, Holi, the Hindu festival of colors, draws near. The date is determined by the Hindu lunar calendar, typically falling on a day in March, with this year landing on Wednesday, March 8. Like Diwali, the Hindu new year and festival of lights, the auspicious occasion is a time to celebrate good over evil and honor the love of Lord Radha Krishna.

In India, celebrations are held far and wide across the country, and Hindus around the world partake in festivities, as well. Traditionally, people join together for a spirited outdoor gathering, in which guests wear white and throw colored powder. The result is a vibrant and whimsical mess, which feels freeing and fun. With Holi falling on a weekday at times, it’s not uncommon for festivities to ensue on the weekends before and after, and like any holiday, it's complemented by good eating. Whether you're hosting a Holi celebration, attending a potluck affair or gifting friends who partake, consider these recipes your go-to for ringing in Holi 2023.

This recipe puts a spicy twist on an American tradition. A yogurt marinade helps tenderize the meat, while fragrant spices like chili powder, ground turmeric, ground coriander and garam masala add deeply complex flavor. The cilantro-dipping chutney offers a cool reprieve from the spice, but the chicken is equally delicious on its own.

In Indian culture, ladoos are synonymous with celebration. These pistachio ladoos are easy enough to make and fun to roll into bite-size balls. Hardly anybody can resist just one, so plan in advance and pile your platters high.

Some dishes need a little more TLC than others, and gajar ki halwa is one of them. The carrot-heavy dessert is moist and subtly sweet, and a refreshing alternative to more decadent pastries. The base, made of milk and ghee, should be kept under a watchful eye, before incorporating carrots, nuts and spices. The result is a sweet mash, slightly caramelized and with a nutty crunch.

Few things offer warmth and comfort like a piping hot cup of masala chai. The spiced milk tea, made by brewing black tea with milk, water and spices like cardamom, cinnamon and cloves is had day-in and day-out in Indian households, and is certainly part of any and all Indian celebrations. A cup pairs equally well with salty snacks as it does with sweet confections.