Introduction
Durga Puja, the grand celebration of the Hindu goddess Durga, is a time for devotion and prayer and a splendid occasion for feasting. These days, the air is thick with the aromas of delicious snacks for Durga Puja. Let’s dive into some of the most beloved Durga Puja snacks you can try at home.
Jhal Muri
One of the most iconic snacks you’ll find during Durga Puja is Jhal Muri. It is a spicy puffed rice mixture with mustard oil, chopped onions, tomatoes, green chilies, and spices. This snack is easy to make and perfect for eating while hopping from one pandal to another.
Aloo Chop
Aloo Chop is a Bengali-style mashed potato fritter coated in chickpea flour and deep-fried until golden. It is usually served hot with tangy tamarind chutney or spicy green chutney. The crispy outside and soft and spicy inside make it a crowd favorite.
Puchka
Known as Pani Puri in other parts of India, Puchka is a beloved street food in West Bengal, especially during Durga Puja. These hollow, crispy dough balls are filled with spicy tamarind water, tamarind chutney, chili, chaat masala, potato, and chickpeas. It’s a burst of flavors in your mouth!
Beguni
Beguni is a simple yet delicious snack made by slicing eggplants, dipping them in seasoned chickpea flour, and deep-frying them. Crispy and golden are often enjoyed with a cup of hot tea or as a side with rice and dal.
Ghugni
Ghugni is a savory curry made from white or yellow peas. It is a popular snack during Puja days. It’s typically garnished with chopped onions, green chilies, and coriander leaves. Ghugni can be enjoyed on its own, as a topping over cutlets, or as a side with puris.
Kathi Rolls
Kathi Rolls are street food gems during Durga Puja. They are skewer-roasted kebabs wrapped in paratha bread. You can fill them with a variety of ingredients, including spicy chicken, mutton, or paneer for vegetarians. They are a filling and delicious snack that perfectly captures the essence of Kolkata street food.
Shingara
Similar to samosas, a shingara is a deep-fried pastry with a savory filling of potatoes, peas, and sometimes cauliflower and peanuts for added crunch. It’s typically enjoyed hot and is often accompanied by sweet tamarind or mint chutney.
Rasgulla
Although not a snack, no discussion of Bengali food is complete without mentioning Rasgulla, especially during the festivities; these soft, spongy balls made from cottage cheese are soaked in a light sugar syrup. They provide a sweet end to any meal or a lovely start for those who prefer desserts first!
Sandesh
Another sweet delight, Sandesh, is made from milk and sugar and often flavored with cardamom or saffron. This sweet is a staple during Durga Puja and melts in your mouth with its soft, fudgy texture.
Chop
Chop is another type of Bengali cutlet involving different fillings, such as mashed fish, chicken, or lamb. It is seasoned with spices, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried. Each bite is a delicious crunch of flavors!
Tele Bhaja
Tele Bhaja refers to a variety of deep-fried snacks made from different vegetables, such as potato slices, pumpkin, and even fish fillets, all coated in a chickpea flour batter. It’s the perfect snack for those who love crispy and tasty food.
Conclusion
Each of these snacks captures the spirit of Durga Puja, bringing joy and satisfaction to those who partake in the festivities. Whether you’re a local enjoying the street food scene or a visitor experiencing Durga Puja for the first time, these snacks will surely enhance your festival experience. So, dive in, taste, and enjoy the flavors of Durga Puja!
https://snackdiscoveryhub.com/diwali-snacks/
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What makes Durga Puja snacks unique?
Ans: Puja snacks are unique because they often incorporate local flavors and ingredients that are popular during the festival. They are also usually enjoyed as street food, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Q2: Are Durga Puja snacks suitable for vegetarians?
Ans: Yes, many Durga Puja snacks are vegetarian-friendly. Popular vegetarian options include Aloo Chop, Puchka, Ghugni, and Sandesh.
Q3: Can I make Durga Puja snacks at home?
Ans: Yes, most Durga Puja snacks with simple ingredients can be made at home. There are many recipes available online, making it easy to recreate your favorite street food snacks.
Q4: How can I ensure my Durga Puja snacks are crispy and not soggy?
Ans: To ensure your snacks stay crispy, make sure to fry them in hot oil at the right temperature. Additionally, draining them on paper towels after frying can help remove excess oil, keeping them crispy for longer.
Q5: Are Durga Puja snacks gluten-free?
Ans: Some Durga Puja snacks, such as Ghugni and Sandesh, are naturally gluten-free. However, others, like Kathi Rolls and Shingara, may contain wheat flour. It’s essential to check the ingredients or look for gluten-free recipes if you have a gluten intolerance.
6Can I find Durga Puja snacks outside of West Bengal?
Ans: While Durga Puja snacks are most commonly found in West Bengal, you can find them in other parts of India, especially in areas with a significant Bengali population. Additionally, you can make them at home using authentic recipes.
