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Kali Puja is an auspicious Hindu festival that holds a special place in the hearts of devotees, specially in the Bengali families. It is dedicated to Goddess Kali, a powerful incarnation of Goddess Durga who is known for dispelling fears, negativity and mental unrest. This year, Kali Puja falls on October 31 and alongside prayers, the festival is also a time for families to come together over meals prepared as offerings to the goddess. In keeping with the niramish (vegetarian) nature of puja offerings, Bengali households prepare delicious, no-onion, no-garlic dishes to present to the goddess. Here are seven beloved Bengali dishes you can enjoy on Kali Puja.
Also Read:Kali Puja 2024: What Is Offered As Bhog To The Goddess And Its Significance
Labra
Often referred to as "bhoger labra" when made for religious offerings, it is a comforting mixed vegetable dish from West Bengal. Labra includes seasonal vegetables like pumpkin, potato, brinjal, and sometimes cabbage, all cooked in mustard oil. The dish is seasoned with panch phoron and finished with a sprinkle of bhaja masala. It perfectly pairs with steamed rice.
Niramish Aloo’r Dum
This Bengali version of dum aloo is made with baby potatoes which are slowly simmered in a spice mix. Known for being made without onions or garlic, niramish aloo’r dum is often served with koraishutir kochuri or luchi during festive occasions. It can become a showstopper at your Kali Puja feast.
Niramish Bhuna Khichuri
The comforting bhuna khichuri is a dry, roasted variation of regular khichdi. It is prepared with gobindobhog rice and roasted moong dal. Served with sides like labra and kumro’r bhaja, this dish is often made on auspicious days to honor deities. Its golden hue and distinct aroma make it an unmissable offering for Kali Puja.
Jhinge Shukto
This is curry made from ridge gourd, bitter gourd and sometimes lentil dumplings. It includes spices like radhuni (wild celery seeds) and ginger that add a hint of warmth and flavour. Jhinge shukto is finished with ghee and can be enjoyed with rice as well as roti.
Bandhakopir Torkari
This comforting cabbage dish is a dry curry made with cabbage, potatoes, green peas, and a mix of Bengali spices. Flavoured with cumin, green chillies and garam masala, this torkari is a must-have for Kali Puja feast. Ghee is often drizzled before serving it with rice or roti.
Niramish Chanar Dalna
Chanar dalna is a light and flavourful curry featuring homemade chhena (cottage cheese) balls and potatoes in a mildly spiced gravy. Unlike paneer, which is firmer, freshly prepared chhena provides a softer texture that absorbs the spices beautifully. Chanar Dalna is a vegetarian delicacy often prepared during pujas and other special occasions. You can enjoy it with both rice and roti.
Potoler Niramish Dolma
Potoler dolma is a Bengali delicacy that uses pointed gourd or potol stuffed with a variety of fillings. The filling usually includes Bengal gram paste, grated coconut and spices. This beautifully stuffed gourd is slightly crispy on the outside with a flavourful filling, often served as a side with rice.