Introduction:
Kolkata, the vibrant capital of West Bengal, is a city that celebrates its rich culinary heritage. Known for its delectable Bengali cuisine, Kolkata offers a plethora of mouthwatering dishes that will leave food enthusiasts craving for more. In this article, we will delve into the top 10 Bengali dishes you must try in Kolkata and discover the best places to savor these culinary delights.
Machher Jhol (Fish Curry):
No journey through Bengali cuisine is complete without savoring Machher Jhol, a traditional fish curry that exemplifies the essence of Kolkata. Prepared with various fish varieties, such as Rohu or Hilsa, this dish is known for its subtle flavors and delicate spices. For an authentic experience, head to Kewpie's, located in the heart of Kolkata, where you can relish the perfect bowl of Machher Jhol.
Chingri Malai Curry (Prawn in Coconut Milk):
Chingri Malai Curry is a divine preparation that combines succulent prawns with creamy coconut milk. The dish boasts a harmonious blend of spices, including turmeric, cumin, and ginger. To indulge in this seafood delight, visit Bhojohori Manna, a renowned restaurant that offers an extensive range of traditional Bengali delicacies.
Shorshe Ilish (Hilsa Fish in Mustard Sauce):
Hilsa, the prized fish of Bengal, finds its pinnacle in Shorshe Ilish. The fish is marinated in a tangy mustard sauce and then steamed to perfection. 6 Ballygunge Place, an iconic eatery in Kolkata, serves up an impeccable rendition of this dish, allowing you to savor the unique flavors of Shorshe Ilish.
Kosha Mangsho (Slow-cooked Mutton):
Kosha Mangsho is a slow-cooked mutton curry that epitomizes the robust flavors of Bengali cuisine. The succulent pieces of mutton are cooked with a blend of aromatic spices and served with steaming hot rice or fluffy Bengali luchis (fried bread). Head to Oh! Calcutta, a popular restaurant that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Bengal, to relish this iconic dish.
Aloo Posto (Potato in Poppy Seed Paste):
Aloo Posto is a classic vegetarian dish that showcases the versatility of Bengali cuisine. Tender potatoes are cooked in a flavorful paste made from poppy seeds, mustard oil, and green chilies. To experience this delightful combination of flavors, visit 8th Day Café & Bakery, a cozy eatery known for its fusion of traditional and contemporary dishes.
Shorshe Bata Maach (Mustard Paste Fish):
Shorshe Bata Maach is a delightful fish preparation where the fish fillets are marinated in a pungent mustard paste and then cooked to perfection. To savor this dish, head to Bongnese, a hidden gem tucked away in the bustling streets of Kolkata, where you can enjoy a range of authentic Bengali flavors.
Jhalmuri (Spicy Puffed Rice):
Jhalmuri is a popular street food snack in Kolkata, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Made with puffed rice, spices, peanuts, and chopped vegetables, it offers a burst of flavors and textures in every bite. To savor the best Jhalmuri in Kolkata, make your way to Vardaan Market, a bustling hub of street food vendors.
Mishti Doi (Sweet Yogurt):
No Bengali meal is complete without indulging in Mishti Doi, a sweet and creamy yogurt delicacy. Prepared by fermenting milk with jaggery or sugar, this dessert is known for its rich and velvety texture. Head to the iconic sweet shop, Bhim Chandra Nag, to relish their signature Mishti Doi and other traditional sweets.
Rosogolla (Rasgulla):
Rosogolla, a popular Bengali sweet, needs no introduction. These soft and spongy cottage cheese dumplings soaked in sugar syrup are a true delight for those with a sweet tooth. Visit the legendary sweet shop, K.C. Das, to taste the authentic flavors of this iconic dessert.
Kolkata Kathi Rolls:
Kolkata Kathi Rolls have gained worldwide fame for their unique blend of flavors and convenient street food appeal. These mouthwatering rolls consist of flaky parathas filled with a variety of fillings, such as chicken, mutton, paneer, or vegetables. To relish the best Kolkata Kathi Rolls, visit Nizam's, a century-old eatery that is credited with inventing this iconic street food.
Conclusion:
Kolkata is a culinary paradise for food lovers, offering a diverse range of Bengali dishes that showcase the richness of the region's gastronomic heritage. From fish curries to sweet desserts, each dish has a unique blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. So, the next time you visit Kolkata, make sure to explore these 10 must-try Bengali dishes at their respective recommended locations. Embark on a gastronomic adventure and immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Bengali cuisine in the City of Joy.