India is all set to celebrate Basant Panchami on February 5, 2022. This festival marks the beginning of the bright and sunny spring season. In several parts of India, especially in Bengal and other states of Eastern India, Basant Panchami is also observed as Saraswati Puja. On this day, Goddess Saraswati is worshipped in various households, schools and institutions for knowledge and prosperity. In Bengal, people on this day take bath with haldi ka ubtan, wear yellow coloured clothes and offer their prayers before the idol. They also fast and prepare different types of sweet and savoury dishes for the Goddess and break their fast with the Prasad later in the day.
Besides, friend and family gather in the afternoon to enjoy a classic khichuri (khichdi) bhog together. This bhog platter generally includes khichuri (khichdi), beguni (eggplant fritter), labra (mixed veg), payesh (rice kheer) and mishti (sweets). Every dish here is sattvik and includes no onion, garlic or non-veg ingredients in the recipes.
On the special occasion of Saraswati Puja, we bring you authentic Bengali-style khichuri (khichdi) recipe that will melt in your mouth in no time and soothe your soul to the core. Let's take a look:
Basant Panchami 2022: How To Make Bengali-Style Khichuri (Khichdi) | Authentic Bengali Khichdi Recipe
For a classic Bengali khichuri recipe, you need gobindo bhog rice (scented rice), yellow moong dal, green chilli ginger paste, potato, cauliflower, tomatoes, peas, cumin powder, ghee and garam masala. Unlike the regular khichdi recipe, Bengali khichuri follows an extensive cooking process and takes some extra time.
You need to first make a masala with whole garam masala and ginger paste. Then cook potatoes, cauliflower, peas and tomatoes in it. By the side, dry roast moong dal and rice and clean it in running water. Then add the roasted moong dal and rice to the kadhai and boil. Once boiled, add ghee, adjust salt and sugar and serve hot. Make sure, prepare this recipe in ghee to enjoy a rich aroma and authentic flavours.
Click here for the step-by-step recipe.
Try this khichdi and make your meal a lavish affair.