From aromatic biryanis to slow-cooked curries, explore the traditional dishes that make Eid al-Adha celebrations truly unforgettable — with recipes and cultural significance.
Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is not only a deeply spiritual occasion but also a grand culinary celebration. On this blessed day, families gather to offer prayers, perform Qurbani (sacrifice), and most memorably — share a lavish feast. The dining table becomes the heart of celebration, featuring time-honored dishes that honor tradition, culture, and togetherness. Here are 7 must-cook dishes that embody the spirit of Eid al-Adha and bring communities closer through flavors, stories, and sacred rituals.
1. Mutton Biryani
Relevance: A centerpiece of Eid feasts across South Asia, biryani celebrates abundance and hospitality. Made using the Qurbani meat, it symbolizes joy and sharing.
Recipe:
- Ingredients: Basmati rice, 1 kg mutton, yogurt, fried onions, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, saffron, ghee, mint, coriander, and spices.
- Method: Marinate mutton in yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, and spices for 2 hours. Cook meat until tender. In another pot, half-boil the rice with whole spices. Layer rice and meat, top with saffron milk, ghee, and fried onions. Seal with dough and cook on low flame (dum) for 30 minutes.
2. Nihari (Slow-Cooked Spiced Stew)
Relevance: Traditionally served for breakfast after Eid prayers in North India and Pakistan, Nihari signifies warmth and unity in the family.
Recipe:
- Ingredients: Mutton or beef shank, bone marrow, ginger-garlic paste, wheat flour (for thickening), Nihari masala, ghee.
- Method: Sear meat in ghee, add spices and enough water to cover. Simmer on low heat for 6–8 hours. Add wheat flour paste to thicken. Serve with lemon, fried onions, and naan.
3. Seekh Kebabs
Relevance: Perfect for family BBQs during Eid, these skewers are shared joyfully during outdoor celebrations.
Recipe:
- Ingredients: Minced lamb, garlic, ginger, green chilies, garam masala, coriander, cumin, lemon juice.
- Method: Mix all ingredients, form into logs on skewers. Grill or cook over charcoal till browned. Serve with chutney and naan.
4. Kaleji Masala (Spiced Liver Curry)
Relevance: Liver is often the first cut of meat consumed after Qurbani. It’s a quick, hearty dish served as a gesture of gratitude.
Recipe:
- Ingredients: Fresh goat liver, onions, tomatoes, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala.
- Method: Sauté onions and spices, add liver, and cook on medium flame until soft but not rubbery. Garnish with coriander and green chilies.
5. Sheer Khurma (Vermicelli and Dates Dessert)
Relevance: No Eid celebration is complete without this traditional dessert — symbolizing sweetness, unity, and divine blessings.
Recipe:
- Ingredients: Milk, ghee, dates, vermicelli, sugar, dry fruits.
- Method: Roast vermicelli in ghee, add milk and dates. Simmer. Add sugar and dry fruits. Cook until creamy. Serve warm or cold.
6. Raan Roast (Whole Leg of Lamb)
Relevance: A royal preparation showcasing the sacrificial animal in grandeur — often served at the main family meal.
Recipe:
- Ingredients: Whole lamb leg, yogurt, spices, garlic, vinegar, mustard oil.
- Method: Marinate overnight. Roast in oven or tandoor until charred outside and juicy inside. Baste with ghee. Garnish with onions and lemon.
7. Keema Matar (Minced Meat with Peas)
Relevance: A weekday Eid favorite made from Qurbani meat, especially loved for its versatility with parathas or rice.
Recipe:
- Ingredients: Minced lamb, peas, onions, tomatoes, spices, ginger-garlic paste.
- Method: Fry onions and spices, add keema and cook. Add peas, simmer till cooked. Serve with rotis or buns.
Eid al-Adha is a festival where spiritual devotion meets culinary tradition. These dishes are more than just recipes — they are stories passed through generations, flavors tied to faith, and plates filled with love. As the aroma of spices wafts through homes today, may your Eid be blessed with togetherness, joy, and the shared warmth of a sacred meal. Eid Mubarak!