Durga puja recipes
Durga Puja is just around the corner, the biggest festival for Bengalis, not just in India, but all around the world. It is observed in the Hindu calendar month of Ashvin, typically September or October of the Gregorian calendar. A multi-day festival that features elaborate temple and stage decorations (pandals), scripture recitation, performance arts, revelry, and processions. Durga Puja celebrates the victory of goddess Durga over the deceptive and powerful demon Mahishasura. Thus, the festival epitomises the victory of Good over Evil. It coincides with Navratri (Dussehra) observed in the rest of India.
Bengalis are known for their love for food, and scrumptious food is an integral part of this festival. I have been a part of this celebration in Kolkata and Durgapur, where the whole city lights up gloriously. Not just the capital city Kolkata, the entire state is decked up with lights and colours. Durga Puja is celebrated in Melbourne too in a grand fashion, two days of festivities with family, friends, and of course, food!
The rest of India celebrates Navratri by fasting. Click here if you are looking for vrat/ /upvas/fasting foods.
This year, with all the uncertainties around, we don't know how the Durga Puja will be celebrated across the world. We don't see any community celebrations here in Melbourne. I am putting together recipes for a few dishes that can be easily made at home and enjoyed during Durga Puja. Get cooking and indulge in food heaven!
Bhoger thali (thali offered to Goddess Durga)
Vegetarian dishes
- Bhoger Khichuri
- Panchmishali (Bengali Style Mixed Vegetables)
- Bengali Mishti Pulao (Sweet Pilaf)
- Cholar Dal
- Tomato Date Chutney
- Bengali Style Hing Kachori
- Luchi Aloor Dum
- Bengali Vegetable Chop
- Narkel Naru (Coconut Laddu)
- Rasgulla (with tips, tricks, and troubleshooting)
- Kheer (Rice Pudding)
- Rasmalai
- Kalakand
Meat/Seafood
Unlike other festivals, meat is consumed during Durga Puja, except on Asthami.
Indo-Chinese
Indo-Chinese cuisine needs a special mention here. The Indo-Chinese cuisine is said to have been developed by the small Chinese community that has lived in Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) for over a century.
