9 comfort foods for post-Dussehra cravings, from shakarkandi to til chikki

Dussehra marks the end of one festive chapter and the slow arrival of cooler months. After weeks of sweets, heavy meals, and endless feasting, the body craves warmth, balance, and grounding foods. This is when Indian kitchens shine, bringing out simple, earthy dishes that feel like a hug on a plate.

Here are nine comforting Indian foods that are perfect to transition from the high-energy Dussehra celebrations into the slower, cozier season ahead.

Roasted Shakarkandi

The smoky fragrance of roasted shakarkandi (sweet potato) is a true seasonal marker. Sweet potatoes not only fill you up but also provide natural warmth and slow-releasing energy, perfect after the sugar-heavy festive days.

Many sprinkle chaat masala and a dash of lemon juice over it, turning this humble tuber into an irresistible evening snack, which keeps you fuller till your dinner time pops in.

Bajra Roti with Ghee

Normal wheat rotis are overrated! Nothing signals the onset of cooler weather like the earthy aroma of bajra flour. Bajra roti paired with a dollop of ghee is rich, filling, and deeply nourishing.

It balances the digestive system after indulgent festive spreads and also keeps the body warm as temperatures begin to dip. Pair it with seasonal sabzis or even jaggery for a traditional touch. Hearty, filling and doesn't take a huge bump in the calorie pocket.

Khichdi

Khichdi is like the universal food across weathers, festivals and so on. After festivals, it is almost ritualistic in many Indian households. This simple mix of rice, lentils, and mild spices is the ultimate reset button for the stomach.

Variations abound, from moong dal khichdi with ghee tadka to bajra or millet-based versions. Light, wholesome, and healing, khichdi is food that lets the body rest while still providing nourishment but portion control is paramount.

Sarson ka Saag

As mustard greens begin to appear, saag takes center stage in many kitchens. Slow-cooked with garlic, ginger, and spices, sarson ka saag is rich, flavorful, and comforting.

Traditionally paired with makki ki roti, it’s a dish that bridges the gap between festive indulgence and seasonal wellness. It also strengthens immunity, making it especially relevant after weeks of celebratory excess. One of the best options when it comes to marrying taste and health.

Til Chikki

Another snack that quietly enters homes post-Dussehra is til chikki. Jaggery mixed with sesame seeds becomes a crunchy, sweet bar that’s both comforting and functional.

Jaggery helps in cleansing the stomach while sesame seeds are packed with calcium and iron. It’s the perfect small bite when you want something sweet without the heaviness of festive mithai but again, portion control is paramount here.

Methi Paratha

The slight bitterness of fresh methi leaves folded into soft parathas is a reminder that the seasons are changing. Methi is known to aid digestion and balance blood sugar, making it a great counter to festive indulgence.

Many eat it with curd or pickle, and it doubles as a travel-friendly food for the busy weeks that follow Dussehra. But have over 2 or 3 (smaller in size) of them, and you might hurt your caloric intake.

Gond Laddoo

Sweet cravings can never completely be dealt with indeed. With winter inching closer, gond laddoos make their return. Made with wheat flour, ghee, and nuts primarily, these laddoos are known for keeping joints strong and the body warm.

Many households begin making and storing them right after Dussehra to be enjoyed throughout the colder months. Each bite is dense with tradition and energy. Can even be used a post-workout snack.

Masoor Dal Soup

A bowl of masoor dal soup is light yet filling, perfect for evenings when the chill starts to set in. Unlike heavier dals, masoor is quick to cook and easy on the stomach.

Seasoned with garlic, cumin, and a drizzle of ghee, it makes for a wholesome dish that nourishes without overwhelming.

Sattu Drink

While often associated with summer, sattu drink is equally refreshing after Dussehra. It provides protein and helps flush out toxins from the system.

A glass of sattu with lemon, black salt, and water can feel like a natural reset after the rich foods of the festive week. It is simple, rustic, and surprisingly satisfying.

Post-Dussehra eating is not about giving up taste but rediscovering balance. These foods carry warmth, nostalgia, and the wisdom of seasonal eating that Indian kitchens have perfected over centuries.

From the smoky sweetness of shakarkandi to the grounding bite of bajra roti, each dish is more than just a meal. It is a reminder that after celebration comes calm, and after indulgence comes care.