Independence Day 2024: Chef Kirti Rastogi Shares Tricolour Recipes To Celebrate Freedom Of India

On August 15, 2024, India will be celebrating its 78th Independence Day. On August 15, 1947, the country got independence from the British Raj, and since then, the day witnesses celebrations across the country. Prime Minister of India, cabinet ministers, and dignitaries across the globe gather at the Red Fort, New Delhi, to hoist the flag and be the spectator of one-of-kind parade.

Amid this, food plays a crucial role in bringing communities together. This Independence Day, celebrates the freedom of India and struggles of freedom fighters with children. Prepare these two delicious recipes in tricolour representing the Indian flag. This will give you a chance to narrate to your children the tale of how India got independence and who all fought for it.

Tricolour Pizza

Image Credit: The Ashok

Ingredients For Tricolour Pizza

For Dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour 
• 1 tsp sugar 
• 1 tsp salt 
• 1 tsp active dry yeast 
• 1 cup lukewarm water 
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For Green Layer

• 100 grams of fresh spinach paste 
• 50 grams of sliced mushrooms 
• 2 tbsp olive oil 
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 
• 1/2 tsp white pepper powder 
• Salt to taste 
• 1 tbsp fresh cream (for finishing & smoothness)

For White Layer

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 
• 50 ml fresh cream

Toppings

• 2 tomatoes (sliced & sundried) for the orange layer 
• 2 to 3 Green Pitted Olives for the green layer

Method To Prepare Tricolour Pizza

• Preheat the oven to 220°C so that when you toss the pizza inside, the environment is warm like a wood oven. 
• Prepare the pizza dough and let it rise so that you can easily work with it. 
• Roll out the dough into a circular shape to prepare the base which will flaunt a crispy crust and soft insides. 
• Spread the prepared spinach and mushroom sauce (green layer) on one-third side of the pizza base. 
• Spread the mozzarella cheese in the centre of the base and sprinkle cream over it (for the white layer in the middle). 
• Spread the spicy tomato sauce for the orange layer on the remaining third side of the base. 
• Add the toppings, including sun dried tomatoes on the orange layer and sliced green olives on the green layer. 
• Bake the pizza for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. 
• Serve it hot with a drizzle of olive oil!

Also Read: Easy Tricolour Dishes To Celebrate Independence Day

Tiranga Dhokla

Image Credit: The Ashok

Ingredients For Tiranga Dhokla

For Batter

• 1/2 cup Semolina or rava 
• 3/4 cups curd
• 1/2 cup Water 
• 3/4 tsp baking soda 
• 2 tsp sugar
• Salt to taste
• For Coloured Layers
• 2 tbsp carrot puree
• 2 tbsp green chilli-spinach paste

For Tempering

• 1 tbsp oil 
• 1 tsp mustard seeds 
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds 
• 2 sliced green chillies 
• A sprig of fresh curry leaves 
• 1 tsp sugar 
• 1/2 tsp asafoetida  
• 1 tbsp lemon juice 
• 2 tbsp water 
• 1/2 tsp salt

Method For Preparing Tiranga Dhokla

• Mix all the ingredients of the batter in a bowl except baking soda because it will be added in the end. Ensure the batter is smooth, thick, and has a flowing consistency. 
• Allow the batter to rest for 10-15 mins. This will add puffiness and sponginess to dhoklas. 
• Divide this batter into three equal parts in three separate bowls. 
• Now, add the respective ingredients colour-wise - green puree in one bowl and carrot puree in the other. Leave the third bowl as is. 
• Meanwhile, grease a steamer plate or a cake pan. Prepare the steamer for a steam bath. 
• Pour the green layer mixture/batter first at the bottom by vigorously mixing the baking soda in it. Spread the mixture evenly and steam it for 7-8 minutes. 
• Repeat the process with the white and orange batters in the same way.
• Once done, allow the steamer to cool and prepare the tadka on the side. 
• Cut the tiranga dhokla into desired shapes, garnish with tadka, and serve.