Must-Eat Traditional Eid Dishes from India

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to experience Eid in India, let us tell you - food is the heart and soul of the celebration! It’s a time when the aroma of spices fills the air, families gather around tables covered with delicious dishes, and every bite feels like a warm hug from the inside. So, if you’re lucky enough to be in India during Eid, or just dreaming of an Eid feast, here’s your ultimate guide to the must-eat foods that will make you say, “Where have you been all my life?”

Foodie’s Guide to Eid in India: What to Eat (And Why You’ll Love It)

1. Biryani: The star of Eid feasts

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Let’s start with the crown jewel of any Eid spread: biryani. Now, biryani isn’t just food; it’s an experience. Layers of fragrant rice, tender marinated meat (usually chicken), fried onions, and a medley of spices like saffron and cardamom come together in a magical dance. And just when you think it can't get any better, a dollop of raita (a yogurt-based side dish) or a squeeze of fresh lime elevates the whole meal.

In India, biryani isn’t just made - it’s crafted. Whether it’s the legendary Hyderabadi biryani, the rich Kolkata biryani with its boiled egg and potatoes, or the flavorful Lucknowi biryani, every region adds its unique spin. But one thing’s for sure: biryani is the star of every Eid meal. If you miss it, we’ll need to have a serious talk.

Also read: 9 Traditional Iftar Drinks Around the World

2. Shawarma: The Middle Eastern love affair

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Okay, we’re going to take a slight detour here, but trust me, it’s worth it. You know the juicy, grilled meat wrapped in a soft pita, topped with garlic sauce and crunchy veggies? Yes, we’re talking about shawarma. During Eid, food stalls across India serve up this Middle Eastern delicacy with a local twist. The meat is marinated, grilled to perfection, and served with a generous helping of hummus or tahini sauce.

It's the perfect street food for those who want a quick, flavorful bite while strolling through the busy markets after prayers. Add a side of fries or pickles for the ultimate shawarma experience. Honestly, you’ll be dreaming about it long after Eid is over.

3. Seekh Kebabs

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Don’t even think about Eid without these! Seekh kebabs are skewers of minced meat, usually lamb or chicken, flavored with aromatic spices, herbs, and a bit of heat. They’re grilled to perfection, leaving you with a smoky, tender bite that’s just chef’s kiss.

The best part? You can eat them as a snack, roll them up in a roti/naan (a type of flatbread), or just pair them with a side of onion rings and mint chutney. No matter how you eat them, one thing’s certain: you’ll be left wanting more.

4. Lamb Korma

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If there’s one dish that screams “Eid royalty,” it’s lamb korma. Imagine tender pieces of mutton simmering in a rich, creamy gravy made with yogurt, cashews, and a variety of spices that have been slow-cooked for hours. It’s indulgence in every bite, and trust us, you’ll want to dip everything in the gravy- naan, rice, or even your fingers (okay, maybe not your fingers, but you get the idea).

Also read: 10 Must-Try Traditional Eid-al Fitr Dishes from Indonesia

5. Rogan Josh

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Let’s be honest - Rogan Josh is the cool cousin of Indian curries. Originating from Kashmir, this rich, vibrant dish is made by slow-cooking tender pieces of lamb in a gravy that’s as flavorful as it is colorful. The trick? A complex blend of spices, including Kashmiri red chili, which gives the dish that signature deep red color (and a slight bit of heat).

If you’ve got a thing for spicy food, then rogan josh will win your heart in a heartbeat. It's often served with warm naan or steamed rice, making it the perfect accompaniment to any Eid feast.

6. Sheer Khurma

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Now that you’ve eaten your fill of savory goodness, it’s time for dessert. And on Eid, the dessert of choice is often sheer khurma. It’s a rich, creamy dish made with vermicelli noodles, milk, sugar, cardamom, and a sprinkle of nuts like almonds and pistachios.

It’s like a sweet hug for your stomach, and you’ll find it served in bowls, garnished with even more nuts. The best part? It’s often prepared in large quantities, so there’s no such thing as “one serving.” Go ahead, get yourself a second (or third) helping, after all, you’re on vacation!

7. Miscellaneous Kebabs

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If you're still hungry after all the biryanis and curries (which, let’s face it, you probably will be looking at the spread), then it’s time to dive into the wide world of kebabs. There are so many varieties across India that you might just get kebab-overload - but don’t worry, that’s a good thing!

From the melt-in-your-mouth Galouti kebabs from Lucknow to the fiery tandoori kebabs you’ll find in Delhi’s street corners, these grilled delights are the perfect companion to any Eid celebration. The best part? They come in all sizes, so you can snack, share, or just hoard them all for yourself. Pair with a tangy mint chutney and some onion salad, and you’ve got yourself a kebab party.

8. Shahi Tukda

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If there’s one dessert that screams royalty during Eid in India, it’s Shahi Tukda (royal piece of dessert). This sweet treat is a rich, indulgent dish that dates back to the Mughal era, and it’s as decadent as it sounds. Imagine crispy fried bread slices, drenched in a luscious, fragrant syrup made of sugar, rose water, and saffron. Once soaked, the bread is then topped with thick, creamy rabri (sweetened condensed milk), sprinkled with nuts like pistachios and almonds, and sometimes garnished with gold leaf for that extra touch of opulence. Once you try it, you'll see why it's a must-eat!

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So, whether you're in Delhi, Hyderabad, or somewhere in between, the food during Eid in India is more than just a meal - it’s a celebration of culture, tradition, and love. Don’t just come for the prayer and festivities - come for the food. You’ll be glad you did!