Eid-ul-Fitr Feast: Top 20 Must-Try Indian Dishes for a Grand Celebration

Eid-ul-Fitr is a time of joy, gratitude, and togetherness, celebrated with a grand feast that brings families and communities together. Across India, the festival is marked by an array of traditional and regional delicacies that showcase the country’s rich culinary heritage. From mouthwatering biryanis to delectable sweets, every dish holds a special place in the Eid celebrations. The festivities begin right from iftar, the meal that breaks the day-long fast during Ramadan, where indulgent dishes like kebabs, samosas, and fruit chaat make their way to the table. But the real feast is reserved for Eid-ul-Fitr, when homes are filled with aromatic flavours and irresistible delicacies that make the celebration truly special.

Here is a list of 20 dishes from India that you must try on Eid-ul-Fitr:

1. Nalli Nihari
2. Sheer Korma
3. Biryani
4. Haleem
5. Phirni
6. Baklava
7. Mutton Shami Kebab
8. Kimami Sewaiyan
9. Boti Kebabs
10. Zarda
11. Shahi Tukda
12. Keema Samosa
13. Katayef
14.  Korma
15. Sheermal
16. Sohan Asali
17. Sufi Malpua
18. Fruit Custard
19. Dates Halwa
20. Mango Kulfi 

 

• Nalli Nihari

 

Nalli Nihari is a rich, slow-cooked mutton stew, infused with aromatic spices, making it a must-have dish for Eid-ul-Fitr. After a soulful iftar, this Mughlai delicacy takes centre stage in the grand feast, served with naan or khameeri roti. Its deep flavours and tender meat create a royal dining experience, perfect for festive celebrations. No Eid feast is complete without savouring the irresistible taste of Nalli Nihari!

Best served with: 

Nalli Nihari is best served with khameeri roti, naan, or soft tandoori roti, which perfectly soak up its rich, flavourful gravy. For a wholesome experience, pair it with fragrant saffron rice and a side of fresh onion slices and lemon wedges. 

• Sheer Korma

No Eid-ul-Fitr celebration is complete without indulging in a bowl of Sheer Korma, a rich and creamy vermicelli pudding. Made with milk, dates, dry fruits, and aromatic saffron, this festive dessert symbolizes warmth and togetherness. After a fulfilling iftar, Sheer Korma adds the perfect touch of sweetness to the Eid feast. Its velvety texture and nutty flavors make it a beloved tradition across Indian households. Served warm or chilled, this royal treat is a must-have for every Eid celebration!

Best served with: 

Sheer Korma is best served warm or chilled, garnished with slivers of almonds, pistachios, and a drizzle of rose water for an aromatic touch. Pair it with crispy seviyan, dates, or a cup of saffron-infused chai to enhance its rich, festive flavours. 

• Biryani

 

Aromatic and flavourful, Biryani is the highlight of every Eid-ul-Fitr feast, bringing together fragrant basmati rice, succulent meat, and rich spices. After a light iftar of samosas, kebabs, and fruit chaat, this royal dish takes centre stage in the celebratory meal. Whether it’s Hyderabadi, Lucknowi, or Kolkata Biryani, each variation adds a unique touch to the festive spread. 

Best served with: 

Biryani is best served with cooling raita, a refreshing mix of yogurt, mint, and spices that balances its rich flavours. Pair it with crispy fried onions, tangy pickles, and a side of mirchi ka salan or spicy curry for an extra burst of flavour. A chilled glass of sweet lassi or sharbat makes the perfect drink to complete this royal feast. 

• Haleem

 

Rich, hearty, and packed with flavour, Haleem is a slow-cooked dish made with wheat, lentils, and tender meat, simmered to perfection. During iftar, this protein-rich delicacy is a favourite as it provides energy and nourishment after a day of fasting. On Eid-ul-Fitr, its creamy texture and aromatic spices make it a festive must-have, best enjoyed with naan or khameeri roti. Loved for its melt-in-the-mouth consistency, Haleem is a true celebration of taste and tradition.

Best served with: 

Haleem is best served with khameeri roti, naan, or taftan, which perfectly complement its rich, creamy texture. Garnish with crispy fried onions, fresh coriander, a squeeze of lemon, and a sprinkle of roasted cashews for an extra burst of flavour. Pair it with a side of chilled lassi or rose sherbet for a complete festive experience. 

• Phirni

 

Phirni is a rich and creamy rice pudding, made with ground rice, milk, saffron, and cardamom, served chilled in earthen bowls. A staple in Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations, this silky dessert is loved for its delicate texture and aromatic flavours. Often garnished with chopped nuts and rose petals, Phirni adds a touch of sweetness to the festive feast. It’s refreshing taste makes it the perfect way to end a grand Eid meal!

Best served with: 

Phirni is best served chilled in traditional earthen bowls (kulhads), which enhance its rich flavour and aroma. Garnish with sliced almonds, pistachios, saffron strands, and rose petals for an elegant touch. Pair it with a cup of fragrant Kashmiri kahwa or masala chai for a delightful festive treat. 

• Baklava

 

Baklava is a rich and flaky pastry, layered with chopped nuts and soaked in sugar syrup, making it a must-have treat for Eid-ul-Fitr. After a refreshing iftar, this crispy, honey-drizzled dessert adds a perfect crunch to the festive spread. Its buttery layers and nutty sweetness make it an irresistible indulgence during Eid celebrations. Loved for its delicate balance of textures and flavours, Baklava is a true symbol of festive indulgence!

Best served with: 

Baklava is best served warm or at room temperature, allowing the syrup to infuse its crispy layers with rich sweetness. Enjoy it with a cup of Kashmiri kahwa, Turkish coffee, or masala chai for a perfect balance of flavours. A scoop of vanilla or saffron ice cream adds an extra indulgent touch to this festive treat. 

• Mutton Shami Kebab

 

Mutton Shami Kebab is a delicious pan-fried delicacy made with minced mutton, lentils, and aromatic spices, perfect for Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. A popular choice for iftar dishes, these protein-packed kebabs provide a flavourful and energizing bite after a long day of fasting. Their crispy outer layer and soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture make them a festive favourite.

Best served with: 

Mutton Shami Kebab is best served hot and crispy with mint chutney, spicy imli (tamarind) chutney, and a side of thinly sliced onions and lemon wedges for a tangy kick. Pair it with roomali roti or soft sheermal for a more indulgent experience. A refreshing glass of chilled lassi or sharbat makes the perfect accompaniment to balance the rich flavours. 

• Kimami Sewaiyan

 

A royal twist on traditional vermicelli, Kimami Sewaiyan is a thick, caramelized dessert made with milk, khoya, nuts, and ghee-roasted sewai. This rich and aromatic delicacy is a must-have during Eid-ul-Fitr, adding a touch of indulgence to the festive feast. Unlike regular sewaiyan, it has a deep, caramelized flavour, making it a unique treat for special occasions. Garnished with slivers of almonds, pistachios, and a hint of saffron, Kimami Sewaiyan is a celebration of taste and tradition.

Best served with: 

Kimami Sewaiyan is best served warm, garnished with chopped nuts, saffron strands, and a drizzle of rose water for an aromatic touch. Pair it with a glass of chilled rose sherbet or kesariya doodh (saffron milk) to complement its rich, caramelized flavours. For an extra indulgence, serve it with a scoop of malai kulfi or rabri on the side.

• Boti Kebabs

 

Tender and smoky, Boti Kebabs are succulent meat cubes marinated in rich spices and grilled to perfection, making them a highlight of Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. A favourite among iftar dishes, these juicy kebabs provide a flavourful and protein-packed bite after a day of fasting. Their charred, melt-in-the-mouth texture makes them an irresistible treat during the festive feast. Served with mint chutney and fresh salads, they add a royal touch to any Eid spread.

Best served with: 

Boti Kebabs are best served hot off the grill, paired with mint chutney, spicy garlic dip, and a side of onion rings and lemon wedges for a zesty kick. Enjoy them with roomali roti, naan, or sheermal for a wholesome experience. A chilled glass of masala buttermilk or rose sherbet perfectly balances the smoky flavours of the kebabs. 

• Zarda

 

Bright, fragrant, and full of flavour, Zarda is a traditional sweet rice dish made with saffron, sugar, nuts, and aromatic spices, perfect for Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. Its vibrant yellow hue and rich sweetness make it a festive favourite, adding a royal touch to the dessert spread. Often garnished with almonds, pistachios, and raisins, Zarda offers a delightful mix of textures and flavours. This aromatic dish is a symbol of joy and indulgence, making it a must-have for Eid feasts.

Best served with: 

Zarda is best served warm, garnished with chopped almonds, pistachios, raisins, and a sprinkle of saffron strands for an extra royal touch. Pair it with a side of creamy rabri or malai kulfi to enhance its rich flavours. A glass of chilled rose sherbet or kesar milk makes the perfect refreshing accompaniment to this festive sweet. 

• Shahi Tukda

 

Rich, creamy, and indulgent, Shahi Tukda is a Mughlai dessert made with fried bread soaked in saffron-infused milk and topped with nuts. A popular choice among iftar dishes, this decadent sweet provides a perfect balance of crispiness and creaminess after a day of fasting. Its luxurious flavours make it a highlight of Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations, bringing a royal touch to the festive feast. Garnished with slivers of almonds, pistachios, and a drizzle of rose water, Shahi Tukda is pure indulgence.

Best served with: 

Shahi Tukda is best served warm, soaked in rich rabri and garnished with chopped almonds, pistachios, saffron strands, and a drizzle of rose water for an aromatic touch. Pair it with a scoop of malai kulfi or a glass of chilled kesar milk for an extra indulgent experience. For a modern twist, serve it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to balance its richness. 

• Keema Samosa

 

Keema Samosa is a delicious, crispy pastry filled with spiced minced meat (keema), making it a must-have snack for Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. Its golden, flaky crust and juicy, flavourful filling make it a favourite during festive gatherings. Often enjoyed as part of iftar dishes, these savoury delights provide a satisfying crunch after a day of fasting. Served with tangy chutneys, Keema Samosas are an irresistible addition to the Eid feast.

Best served with: 

Keema Samosa is best served hot and crispy, paired with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or spicy garlic dip for a burst of flavour. Enjoy it with a side of chilled yogurt dip or a refreshing glass of rose sherbet to balance the spices. For a complete Eid snack platter, serve it alongside fruit chaat and dates. 

• Katayef

 

Soft, fluffy, and filled with deliciousness, Katayef is a Middle Eastern pancake stuffed with sweet or nutty fillings, making it a festive favourite for Eid-ul-Fitr. These golden treats can be filled with cream, nuts, or cheese, then folded and either deep-fried or served fresh. A popular choice among iftar dishes, Katayef offers a perfect balance of sweetness and texture after a long day of fasting. Whether drizzled with honey or dusted with powdered sugar, this delightful dessert is a must-have for Eid celebrations.

Best served with: 

Katayef is best served warm or at room temperature, drizzled with honey or sugar syrup for extra sweetness. Pair it with a cup of Arabic coffee, Kashmiri kahwa, or masala chai to complement its rich flavours. For a more indulgent experience, serve it with a side of clotted cream (Ashta) or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. 

• Mutton Korma

 

Rich, aromatic, and full of flavour, Mutton Korma is a slow-cooked delicacy made with tender mutton, yogurt, and a blend of royal spices. This Mughlai dish is a highlight of Eid-ul-Fitr, bringing a luxurious touch to the festive feast. Its creamy, fragrant gravy pairs beautifully with naan, sheermal, or fragrant basmati rice. A true celebration of taste, Mutton Korma is a must-have for every Eid spread.

Best served with: 

Mutton Korma is best served hot, paired with naan, khameeri roti, or sheermal, which perfectly soak up its rich and flavourful gravy. It also complements fragrant basmati rice or saffron pulao for a royal feast. A side of onion rings, lemon wedges, and cucumber raita enhances the dish, making it even more delightful. 

• Sheermal

 

Sheermal is a soft, saffron-infused flatbread with a hint of sweetness, making it a perfect accompaniment to rich Eid dishes. This Mughlai delight is prepared with flour, milk, ghee, and saffron, giving it a rich texture and aromatic flavour. A staple of Eid-ul-Fitr feasts, Sheermal beautifully balances both savoury and sweet dishes. Its soft, buttery layers make every festive meal even more indulgent.

Best served with: 

Sheermal is best served warm, brushed with ghee for extra richness and paired with Mutton Korma, Nihari, or Haleem for a royal feast. It also complements Sheer Korma or Phirni, adding a delightful contrast of flavours. Enjoy it with a cup of saffron-infused milk or masala chai for a truly festive experience.

• Sohan Asali

 

Sohan Asali is a traditional Indian sweet known for its crunchy, caramelized texture and rich nutty flavour, making it a festive favourite for Eid-ul-Fitr. Made with sugar, ghee, and almonds, this golden-hued delicacy is a symbol of indulgence and celebration. Often enjoyed as part of iftar dishes, its crispy bite and balanced sweetness provide an instant energy boost after a long day of fasting. Whether served as a post-iftar treat or part of the grand Eid feast, Sohan Asali adds a delightful crunch to every celebration.

Best served with: 

Sohan Asali is best served at room temperature, paired with a hot cup of masala chai, Kashmiri kahwa, or saffron-infused milk to enhance its rich, nutty flavours. For an indulgent treat, enjoy it alongside dates and dry fruits as part of an iftar platter. A side of fresh fruit or rose sherbet adds a refreshing balance to its sweetness. 

• Sufi Malpua

 

Sufi Malpua is a rich, deep-fried pancake soaked in sugar syrup, infused with cardamom and saffron, making it a must-have for Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. This crispy-yet-soft delicacy has a melt-in-the-mouth texture, bringing warmth and sweetness to the festive feast. Often enjoyed as part of iftar dishes, it provides a comforting and indulgent treat after a long day of fasting. Garnished with chopped nuts and served with rabri, Sufi Malpua is a true symbol of festive indulgence!

Best Served With:

Sufi Malpua is best served warm, drizzled with sugar syrup and garnished with chopped pistachios and almonds. Pair it with thick, creamy rabri for a classic combination, or enjoy it with a glass of chilled rose sherbet for a refreshing contrast. 

• Fruit Custard

 

Light, creamy, and refreshing, Fruit Custard is a delightful blend of chilled milk, custard, and fresh seasonal fruits, making it a perfect dessert for Eid-ul-Fitr. Its smooth texture and natural sweetness add a refreshing touch to the festive feast. Often enjoyed as part of iftar dishes, this colourful treat provides a cooling and nourishing break after a day of fasting. Topped with nuts or a drizzle of honey, Fruit Custard is a simple yet irresistible indulgence for every celebration!

Best Served With:

Fruit Custard is best served chilled, garnished with chopped nuts, raisins, or a drizzle of honey for added richness. Pair it with gulab jamun or shahi tukda for a more decadent dessert platter. A scoop of vanilla or mango ice cream makes it even more indulgent. 

• Dates Halwa

 

Dates Halwa is a soft, chewy, and naturally sweet delicacy made with dates, ghee, and nuts, making it a wholesome treat for Eid-ul-Fitr. Packed with energy and nutrients, this halwa is a favourite during the festive season, offering a perfect balance of taste and health. Often enjoyed as part of iftar dishes, its natural sweetness provides an instant energy boost after a long day of fasting. Its rich texture and deep caramel-like flavour make it a must-have for Eid celebrations!

Best Served With:

Dates Halwa is best served warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped almonds, cashews, and pistachios for added crunch. Pair it with a cup of Kashmiri kahwa, saffron milk, or masala chai for a comforting treat. A side of fresh fruit or roasted dry fruits enhances its natural flavours. 

• Mango Kulfi

 

Rich, creamy, and bursting with the tropical sweetness of ripe mangoes, Mango Kulfi is a frozen delight that adds a refreshing touch to Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. Made with thickened milk, saffron, and cardamom, this traditional Indian ice cream has a velvety texture and intense flavour, it’s cool and creamy taste provides a perfect contrast to the rich festive feast. 

Best Served With:

Mango Kulfi is best served chilled, garnished with chopped pistachios, almonds, and saffron strands for an extra touch of richness. Pair it with falooda, rabri, or fresh mango slices for a more indulgent experience. A drizzle of rose syrup or honey enhances its flavour beautifully.

Eid-ul-Fitr is a celebration of joy, gratitude, and togetherness, and no festivity is complete without a grand feast filled with rich flavours and traditional delicacies. From the light and nourishing iftar dishes that break the fast to the indulgent treats that mark the special occasion, every dish carries a story of culture and heritage. The aroma of slow-cooked meals, the sweetness of festive desserts, and the warmth of shared meals create unforgettable moments with loved ones. As families gather around the table, the spirit of Eid shines through in every bite, making the festival even more special.