As this weekend witnesses back-to-back festivities, this letter brings to you a summary of all the goodness prepped at IFN

It was not enough that the first month of 2023 witnesses a Freaky Friday that (thanking our lucky stars) the weekend also sees a wholesome festive celebration. With Lohri, Makar Sankranti and Pongal aligning themselves to appear on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, it just means that all those jubilating in the festivities have no reason to back out of an elaborate meal. And to keep our word, neither did we. From a til papdi for Makar Sankranti, a gur mewa and a special pinni Punjabi lassi for Lohri to 10 super-easy recipes to whip up a delicious Pongal feast, this letter of mine is filled with recipes galore.

Even though we started this year with a number of healthy-eating and staying fit resolutions, count this weekend as your cheat day and indulge in the festivities. For those entering 2023 with a resolution to stay vegan, I've got a little something for you as well. Try these 100% vegan cream cheese buns for a rich and creamy treat anytime of the day. And if you love a chilled treat in the already cold weather, this vegan almond ice cream is just perfect for you. A treat so cool, even non-vegans would want a taste. While the berry season is still in full swing, make sure to try our 5-ingredient, no-bake strawberry tiramisu for a quick treat when that sweet craving hits. For those who wish to enjoy the goodness of strawberries long after the season's gone, preserve your strawberries with this no-fuss strawberry jam recipe.

The United Nations declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets, an initiative backed by India and 72 other countries in an attempt to put millets on the global map given their abundant nutritional benefits and our age-old history of millet recipes. We kickstarted the month by talking to the founders of Wholsum Food and Mighty Millets regarding the future of millets in the country. You can read the entire account in our January cover issue.

Now that you are all caught up with the happenings at IFN since 2023 started, it's safe to say that we are off to a very good start, keeping our pace with incoming festivities, recipes and a load of exciting projects already lined up for IFN and its sister brand Tastemade India. But of course, all will be revealed at the right time and place. You stay tuned and leave the rest to us.