What typical South Indian snacks are usually served as part of a traditional Pongal celebration?

 Pongal, the harvest festival celebrated across South India, is not only a time of gratitude and prayer but also a true feast for the senses. The air is filled with the aroma of freshly harvested rice and jaggery, and homes are adorned with colorful kolams. But what truly brings families together during Pongal is the delightful array of South Indian snacks that accompany the festive meals.

A traditional Pongal celebration typically includes a spread of crispy, golden treats and savory delights. Murukku, made from rice flour and urad dal, is a crunchy favorite that’s often twisted into spirals and deep-fried to perfection. Thattai, another festive essential, offers a spicy crunch, while Seedai—both sweet and savory—adds a unique texture to the platter.

No celebration is complete without vadas, especially medu vada, which is soft inside and crisp outside, served piping hot with coconut chutney. Sundal, a protein-rich snack made from legumes like chickpeas or green gram, seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and grated coconut, adds balance to the otherwise rich spread.

These South Indian snacks aren’t just festive nibbles—they represent the flavors of tradition, handed down through generations. They carry the spirit of Pongal: simplicity, abundance, and sharing.

Whether enjoyed at home or picked up from a trusted neighborhood bakery like KR Bakes, these timeless treats continue to make Pongal a celebration of both heritage and taste.

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