From Bhog to Biryani, there is a plethora of delicacies to binge on while exploring the stunning pandals. No matter where you are situated, Kolkata, Delhi or Bangalore, the pujo vibe will never fail to overwhelm you. While you beat the traffic and navigate through the city to go pandal hopping, you ought to give your taste buds an opportunity to explore the sensory explosion as well.
Here are the six must-try delicacies when pandal hopping
1. Kathi roll
A staple during Durga Puja, the Kathi roll is made with paratha, generally from maida (refined flour) and a variety of fillings, be it vegetarian or non-vegetarian. Kathi rolls come in various options, ranging from egg rolls, chicken rolls, mutton rolls, paneer rolls and more. Add ketchup, green chutney or kasundi, this dish will leave you wanting for more.
2. Phuchka
Every Durga Puja pandal has to have a mandatory puchka stall. Also referred to as gol gappas and pani-puri, the puchka is known by a number of names. No matter what you call it, you can never dislike it. These are crunchy puris made with atta (whole wheat flour) or suji (semolina) and offer bursts of flavours from sweet, to tangy, to sour taste. The puchka is an instant hit, and irresistible for people of all ages.
3. Ghoogni
Ghoogni is a spicy curry made from boiled chickpeas, which can be paired with lucchis or had as a solo snack. Bengal’s version of the chaat, ghoogni can also be made with green peas, white peas or black gram. It is a dish rich in protein and so appetising that you cannot eat enough of it. Complimented with coconut and ginger garlic, this is a pandal offering you must not miss.
4. Chop
This deep-fried delicacy is a favourite when pandal hopping. These come in various forms and could be crispy chicken cutlets, fish fry, mutton cutlets or kabiraji. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these cutlets are to absolutely die for. The variety of cutlets found during Durga Puja is difficult to find otherwise. Tastes best when served hot, paired with mustard chutney. There are vegetarian options available as well ranging from aloo chop, paneer cutlets, and veg chop, to name a few.
5. Kolkata biryani
A Bengali festive meal is incomplete without biryani, and for Bengalis, biryani cannot exist without potatoes. The aromatic and subtle taste of biryani is the perfect example of the food paradise pandals are. The classic Kolkata-style biryani is prepared with pieces of either mutton, chicken or fish alongside steamed rice, spices and potato. There isn’t a better time than Durga Puja to indulge in the classic Kolkata-style biryani.
6. Street-style chowmein
Indo-Chinese cuisine is an absolute favourite for everyone. It's time to let go of the fancy restaurants because nothing tastes better than street-style noodles tossed in tangy sauces along with finely chopped vegetables, chicken or egg. Pair it with chilli chicken or manchurian and you're good to go. You just can’t go wrong with street-style chowmein!