By Ujjainee Roy
October 5, 2024
Bengali festivals are known for their vibrant celebrations, rich traditions, and most importantly, their diverse and flavorful cuisine. While fish is often associated with Bengali food, the region also offers a wide array of delicious vegetarian dishes, particularly during religious festivals where vegetarian fare is preferred. These dishes are crafted with love, using seasonal ingredients and traditional spices, creating a symphony of flavors that are a treat for both the palate and the soul.
Labra is a mixed vegetable curry made with an assortment of seasonal vegetables such as pumpkin, brinjal (eggplant), radish, and sweet potatoes, cooked together with panch phoron (a Bengali five-spice mix) for a simple yet flavorful dish. It is often served with khichuri (Bengali-style khichdi) during festivals
A light, mildly bitter stew made from a combination of vegetables like bitter gourd, raw banana, potatoes, and drumsticks. The creamy base of milk or yogurt, along with a tempering of mustard seeds and spices, gives it a unique taste that balances bitterness with mild sweetness.
Chanar Dalna is a traditional Bengali curry made with fresh homemade paneer (chana) and potatoes, cooked in a tomato-based gravy with ginger, cumin, and garam masala. This mildly spiced dish is often prepared during pujas and special occasions.
Bhapa Doi is a traditional Bengali dessert made by steaming sweetened yogurt, creating a rich, creamy, and velvety texture. Although a dessert, it’s an integral part of festive meals, offering a cooling and sweet end to a meal.
A simple yet classic Bengali dish, Begun Bhaja is sliced brinjal (eggplant) marinated in turmeric, salt, and sometimes chili, then shallow-fried until crispy. It is usually served as a side dish to rice and dal or khichuri during puja celebrations.
This is a quintessential Bengali dish made with potatoes cooked in a rich and creamy poppy seed paste. The mildly spiced and nutty flavor of posto (poppy seeds) complements the tender potatoes, making it a comforting and satisfying dish during festival