Chhechki is a key part of seasonal Bengali cuisine. Often served as a side dish this medley of finely chopped or grated vegetables, lightly spiced, and cooked with minimal oil, retains the natural flavours and use of local produce. Chhechki is an emotion for every Bengali and a must-try for all food-loving Indians.
From the humble kitchen of Bengal, chhechki has evolved into numerous variants. Using everyday ingredients, you can whip up a range of chhechki dishes that are both delicious and healthy. Be it the crunchy radish chhechki or the sweet and spicy carrot chhechki, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s explore some chhechki recipes that you can easily try at home.
Image Credit: Instagram | rakhisbengalicuisine
Pepe Chhechki
Pepe Chhechki is a simple yet flavourful dish made with raw papaya and shredded coconut. The shredded raw papaya is tempered with bay leaves, cumin seeds, and dry red chillies. This vegan and gluten-free dish is subtly spiced with turmeric and green chillies, and sweetened with a hint of sugar. It’s garnished with more shredded coconut, making it a delightful accompaniment to plain rice.
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Lau Chhechki
Lau Chechki is a traditional Bengali preparation using bottle gourd. The thin strips of bottle gourd are cooked with panchforon (Bengali five spices), green chillies, and mustard paste. The addition of turmeric powder gives it a vibrant yellow colour. It's finished with a garnish of green chillies and coriander leaves. This dish is usually served hot with rice.
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Mulo Chhechki
Mulo Chhechki, a radish stir fry, is a staple in Bengali kitchens. Sliced radish is cooked with nigella seeds, green chillies, and fried bori (dried lentil dumplings). The flavour is enhanced with onions, garlic, turmeric, and roasted cumin powder. This dish is finished with a drizzle of raw mustard oil and chopped coriander leaves. It pairs well with both rice and chapatis.
Gajorer Chhechki
Gajorer Chhechki is a vibrant carrot curry seasoned with nigella seeds and green chillies. Grated carrots are stir-fried with roasted cumin and coriander powder. The dish is lightly spiced and topped with fresh coriander leaves and a dollop of ghee. This simple, nutritious side dish can be enjoyed with steamed rice or chapatis.
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Pepe Kumro Chhechki
Pepe Kumro Chhechki combines the goodness of raw papaya and pumpkin. Grated papaya and pumpkin are cooked with nigella seeds, green chillies, and minimal spices. The dish is garnished with fried and ground vadi (dried lentil dumplings) and fresh coriander leaves. This no-onion, no-garlic recipe is perfect for a light meal with steamed rice or chapatis.
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Beetroot Chhechki
Beetroot Chhechki is a colourful and healthy dish made with grated beetroot. It's cooked with mustard seeds, curry leaves, green chillies, and onions. The finely chopped garlic adds a robust flavour, while shredded coconut provides a sweet contrast. This dish requires no additional water, relying on the beetroot’s natural moisture to cook through. It’s garnished with more shredded coconut before serving.