If you ever crave for something crispy, juicy and spicy to enjoy with your evening tea, then chicken pakora is the perfect choice. These golden, crunchy pieces of marinated chicken are deep-fried to perfection, creating a snack that’s simply hard to resist. Whether you’re treating yourself on a rainy day, serving them as a festive appetizer, or just looking for a quick bite to wow your guests, this dish is sure to steal the show.

If you’re in the mood for something warm, light, and bursting with flavor, chicken shorba is the perfect choice. This desi chicken soup is believed to have originated in the Middle East, and has gained popularity throughout India. Unlike those heavy curries, chicken shorba offers a soul-soothing broth filled with aromatic spices, tender chicken, and fresh herbs. It’s a beloved dish in North India, especially in winters as it is comforting and soothing. It’s a versatile dish that is served as a cosy starter, a side, or even as part of the main course.

The Durga Puja celebrations include a wide range of delicacies, from crispy fritters to creamy curries and fragrant biryanis. One such delicacy is narkel chingri bora –small, oval-shaped fried prawn (chingri) and coconut (narkel) fritters, found in Bengali households. Less popular than chop cutlets, ghugni, and rolls found in pandals, but just as delicious, these fritters are specially prepared during festivals and special occasions.