By Jheelum Basu
January 23, 2026
Food is an integral part of this Bengali festival that celebrates knowledge. From moong dal khicuri and basanti pulao to labra and payesh, the occasion is celebrated with an elaborate vegetarian Saraswati Puja menu. Here’s a list of the must-try items.
This Bengali-style khichdi (also known as khichuri) is a Saraswati Puja special item. Made from roasted moong dal, this aromatic one-pot meal is generally served as a sacred offering.
Basanti Pulao is a traditional, aromatic sweet rice dish known for its vibrant golden colour and subtle sweetness. Being a Saraswati Puja staple, it is often served with aloor dom and labra.
This simple, deep-fried dish features eggplant (begun) marinated in spices like turmeric and chilli powder. They are often fried in mustard oil until crispy and served with dal, rice, or khichdi.
Labra is best defined as a flavorful vegetable curry, served with khichdi. Cooked in mustard oil with aromatic spices like panch phoron, this Saraswati Puja staple brings together assorted vegetables such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, brinjal, and more.
This fragrant, creamy rice pudding writes a sweet ending to the pious occasion. With its aroma, creamy texture, and sweetness, Payesh has always been a beloved Bengali dessert.