Tilkut

Indian sweet from Bihar

Tilkut is a traditional Indian sweet originating from the Bihar region. It is especially popular during the festival of Makar Sankranti, which marks the end of the winter solstice. Tilkut is made primarily from sesame seeds (til) and jaggery or sugar.

Ingredients and Preparation

Tilkut is made using three main ingredients: sesame seeds, jaggery, and sugar. The preparation involves roasting the sesame seeds until they are golden brown. The roasted seeds are then mixed with melted jaggery or sugar to form a sticky mixture. This mixture is then shaped into small round discs or flattened into sheets and cut into pieces.

Tilkut sweet

The quality of tilkut depends on the type of sesame seeds and jaggery used. Traditionally, the best tilkut is made with high-quality white sesame seeds and pure jaggery. The mixture is often flavored with cardamom to enhance its taste.

Cultural Significance

Tilkut holds a special place in the cultural and culinary traditions of Bihar. It is an integral part of the Makar Sankranti celebrations, where it is consumed as a symbol of prosperity and good fortune. The sweet is also distributed among friends and family as a gesture of goodwill.

In addition to its cultural significance, tilkut is valued for its nutritional benefits. Sesame seeds are rich in calcium, iron, and magnesium, while jaggery is a good source of iron and other minerals.

Regional Variations

While tilkut is most closely associated with Bihar, variations of this sweet can be found in other parts of India. In some regions, peanuts or other nuts are added to the mixture for additional flavor and texture. The method of preparation and the choice of sweetener can also vary, with some recipes using sugar instead of jaggery.

Related Pages

• Makar Sankranti
• Indian cuisine
• Jaggery
• Sesame seed