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During the auspicious occasion of Durga Puja, the vibrant streets of Kolkata come alive with festivities, and the air fills with a sense of devotion and celebration. The festival typically falls in late September to early October, coinciding with the lunar month of Ashwin, and lasts for five days. In Kolkata, the Durga Puja celebration is not just a religious observance; it is a cultural phenomenon that encompasses art, music, dance, and, most importantly, food.
Unlike Navratri rituals, the culinary landscape during this time is a feast for the senses, with non-vegetarian dishes taking centre stage in many households and pandals. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this is a time to relish the flavours of Bengal, celebrate the goddess Durga, and create cherished memories around the dining table.
Kosha Mangsho
Kosha mangsho is a rich and aromatic Bengali mutton curry that boasts deep, robust flavours, thanks to spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The slow-cooked meat becomes tender, enveloped in a thick, luscious gravy. Typically served with steaming rice or fluffy luchi (fried bread), it offers a delightful contrast in texture. Accompanying sides like pickles and salad enhance the experience, making Kosha Mangsho a true culinary celebration.
Daab Chingri
Daab chingri is a quintessential Bengali delicacy that beautifully showcases the flavours of Kolkata. This dish features succulent prawns cooked in a rich, aromatic coconut and mustard sauce, all encased within a tender green coconut. The natural sweetness of the coconut complements the briny prawns, creating a delightful contrast. The dish is often enhanced with spices like turmeric and green chillies, delivering a burst of flavour. Traditionally served with steamed rice, it’s a must-try for a festive Puja feast.
Ilish Bhapa
Ilish bhapa, a cherished Bengali dish, is a must-try Puja for non-vegetarian lovers. This delicacy features fresh Hilsa fish marinated in mustard paste, green chillies, and coconut, resulting in a rich, aromatic flavour. The fish is steamed to perfection, yielding a tender and flaky texture that melts in your mouth. Traditionally served with steamed rice, it complements the dish’s bold flavours beautifully.
Kolkata Chicken Biryani
Kolkata chicken biryani is a must-try non-vegetarian dish this Puja, celebrated for its aromatic blend of spices and tender chicken. This biryani features fragrant basmati rice, marinated chicken, and a medley of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, resulting in a rich, savoury flavour. The dish is typically layered with boiled potatoes, fried onions, and a hint of saffron for a delightful texture. Serve it with a side of raita and salad for a complete festive experience.
Macher Jhol
Macher jhol, a traditional Bengali fish curry, is a must-try non-vegetarian dish during the festive Puja season in Kolkata. Made with fresh fish like, it features a fragrant blend of spices, including turmeric, cumin, and coriander, simmered in a light, watery gravy. The curry's delicate texture, paired with the robust flavours of seasonal vegetables like potatoes and tomatoes, creates a harmonious dish. Served with steaming rice, Macher Jhol is a comforting staple that embodies the essence of Bengali cuisine.
Mutton Kosha
This slow-cooked delicacy features tender mutton simmered in a rich, aromatic gravy made with onions, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices like cumin and coriander. The flavours are deep and robust, complemented by the dish's slightly thick texture. Traditionally served with luchi or steamed rice, Mutton kosha is a comforting choice that highlights the vibrant culinary heritage of Bengali cuisine, making it perfect for festive celebrations.
