What Foods Are Eaten During Holi: Recipes for 2025

Holi is all about colors, joy, and of course, delicious food. During Holi 2025, which falls on March 14, people across India and beyond will enjoy traditional Holi foods that make the festival unforgettable. From refreshing drinks like Thandai to sweet treats like Gujiya and Malpua, Holi recipes 2025 will bring a mix of flavors to the table. Buy beautifully decorated Holi feast deserves vibrant table linens at All Cotton and Linen that add a festive touch while protecting your table from color splashes and food spills.

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By All Cotton and LinenNov 3, 20250 comments

Popular Holi Foods to Try in 2025

Holi is a joyful festival filled with colors, laughter, and mouthwatering treats. In 2025, festive favorites like Thandai, Gujiya, Malpua, and Kachori will take center stage. These traditional Holi dishes add extra delight to the celebrations, bringing families together to enjoy the festival’s rich flavors and vibrant spirit.

1. Thandai – The Iconic Holi Drink

No Holi celebration feels complete without a glass of Thandai. This traditional drink is a creamy blend of milk, sugar, and aromatic spices like cardamom, fennel seeds, and black pepper. Garnished with rose petals and sliced almonds, it’s both refreshing and festive. In some regions, Thandai is infused with Bhang, giving it a distinctive twist that adds to the Holi spirit. Served chilled, this flavorful beverage is the perfect way to cool off after a day full of colors and laughter.

2. Gujiya – A Sweet Delight

One of the most famous Holi food items, Gujiya is a deep-fried pastry filled with a sweet mixture of khoya (dried milk), nuts, and dried fruits. It's crispy on the outside and rich on the inside, making it a festive favorite. The golden brown crust gives a delightful crunch, while the sweet filling melts in your mouth. Some modern versions also include chocolate or coconut fillings for a twist.

3. Malpua – The Indian Pancake

Malpua is a traditional Holi food that resembles a syrup-soaked pancake. Made with flour, milk, and sugar, it's deep-fried to golden perfection and often served with Rabri for added sweetness. This dessert has a crispy edge with a soft center, creating a delicious contrast in texture. It’s best enjoyed warm and fresh, straight from the pan.

4. Dahi Bhalla – Creamy and Tangy Treat

Dahi Bhalla is a cooling snack made from lentil dumplings soaked in creamy yogurt, topped with chutneys and spices. This tangy dish is perfect for balancing out the rich and spicy Holi menu ideas. It is garnished with pomegranate seeds and sev for extra crunch. The sweet and spicy chutneys enhance the overall flavor, making it a party favorite.

With all the delicious Holi foods like Gujiya and Dahi Bhalla, having cloth napkins on hand ensures guests can enjoy every bite without worrying about messy fingers.

5. Kachori – Spicy and Savory Snack

Kachori is a fried, flaky pastry stuffed with spicy lentil or potato filling. These crispy bites are perfect for guests enjoying Indian Holi foods. It pairs well with tamarind chutney for a sweet-spicy kick. Some versions, like Raj Kachori, are filled with yogurt and chutneys for an extra burst of flavor.

Preparing fried treats like Kachori and Malpua can get messy, but kitchen towels help absorb excess oil and keep your kitchen tidy throughout the celebrations.

6. Lassi – The Ultimate Yogurt Drink

Lassi is a refreshing yogurt-based drink that comes in multiple flavors like mango, rose, or strawberry. Its creamy texture makes it a crowd-pleaser during Holi gatherings. It helps in digestion and keeps you hydrated throughout the festival. Traditionally, Lassi is served in earthen pots, which enhances its flavor.

7. Papri Chaat – A Street-Style Favorite

This popular snack combines crispy papri (fried dough wafers) with yogurt, chutneys, and spices. It's tangy, sweet, and spicy — perfect for adding variety to your Holi food recipes. It offers a mix of textures, from crunchy to creamy, making it irresistible. Every bite is a burst of flavors, making it a go-to street food during Holi.

8. Phirni – A Creamy Rice Pudding

Phirni is a delicious dessert made with ground rice, milk, and sugar, often flavored with cardamom and saffron. Served chilled, Phirni adds a rich and creamy touch to your Holi feast. It is traditionally served in clay pots, which give it a rustic aroma. The saffron and nuts sprinkled on top make it look as good as it tastes.

9. Puran Poli – A Regional Classic

Puran Poli is a popular Holi food from Maharashtra. This sweet flatbread is stuffed with a mixture of jaggery and lentils, giving it a delightful blend of sweetness and texture. It is usually served with ghee, which enhances its rich taste. The soft texture and sweet filling make it a comforting dish for celebrations.

10. Masala Mathri – The Crunchy Munch

Masala Mathri is a spiced, crispy cracker that’s perfect to serve as a tea-time snack or alongside Holi drinks like Thandai. It has a flaky texture with a hint of spices like carom seeds and black pepper. These crunchy bites can be stored for days, making them a great festive snack. Colorful placemats not only enhance your table setting but also prevent spills from drinks like Thandai and Lassi, making cleanup easier after the feast.

Unique Regional Specialties for Holi 2025

- Kathal ki Sabzi (Jackfruit Curry): A popular vegetarian curry in Bihar and Jharkhand, Kathal ki Sabzi is often prepared as a festive alternative to mutton curry. Its meaty texture makes it a great plant-based option for non-vegetarians. It is slow-cooked with spices to bring out its rich flavor.

- Namak Pare: These crunchy, salted snacks are a common addition to the Holi spread, loved for their simplicity and satisfying crunch. They are deep-fried and can be flavored with ajwain or black pepper. Perfect to pair with tea or a cold Thandai.

- Dhuska: A regional delicacy from Jharkhand, this deep-fried rice and lentil pancake pairs wonderfully with chutneys. It has a slightly crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy inside. Best enjoyed with aloo curry or spicy green chutney.

Bhang: While not for everyone, Bhang is a traditional drink associated with Holi. Made with a paste from cannabis leaves and flowers, it’s blended with milk, spices, and sweets for a unique festival experience. It is often consumed in the form of Bhang Thandai or Bhang Lassi. Some people also prepare Bhang-infused sweets like pakoras.

Holi Menu Ideas for 2025 Celebrations

To plan the perfect Holi feast, mix sweet and savory items to balance flavors. A great Holi menu could include:

Thandai as a welcome drink
Kachori and Papri Chaat as starters
Kathal ki Sabzi and Puran Poli as main course options
Gujiya, Malpua, and Phirni to satisfy sweet cravings

Make sure to prepare a mix of flavors so everyone at your Holi party finds something they love. With these delightful Holi recipes 2025, your celebration will be filled with vibrant flavors and memorable moments. Enjoy the festivities with great company and delicious food!

FAQs

What food is eaten in Holi?

Holi celebrations include a variety of delicious foods like Thandai, Gujiya, Malpua, Kachori, and Dahi Bhalla. These festive dishes bring a mix of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors to the table.

What sweets are eaten during Holi?

Popular Holi sweets include Gujiya, Malpua, Puran Poli, and Phirni. These traditional treats are enjoyed across India, adding sweetness to the festival.

What to pack for Holi?

For Holi, pack comfortable clothing, sunglasses, a cap, skin-friendly colors, and a towel. Also, carry a water bottle and some snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the celebrations.

What can you not eat on Holi?

There are no strict food restrictions, but many people avoid oily or heavy foods before playing with colors. Some also prefer vegetarian dishes for religious reasons.

Can Hindus eat chicken on Holi?

Eating chicken on Holi depends on personal or regional preferences. While many stick to vegetarian Holi food recipes, others enjoy non-vegetarian dishes as part of their celebration.