Introduction
West Bengal is a state in eastern India that is known for its rich culture, heritage, and food. Bengali cuisine is one of the most diverse and delicious in the country, with a wide range of dishes to suit all tastes. Whether you’re a fan of fish, meat, vegetarian food, or sweets, you’re sure to find something to your liking in West Bengal.
Popular dishes
Here are some of the most popular Bengali dishes:
- Machher Jhol (Fish Curry): Fish curry is a staple of Bengali cuisine, and there are many different variations of it. Some of the most popular fish curries include Ilish Machher Jhol (Hilsa Fish Curry), Rohu Machher Jhol (Rohu Fish Curry), and Chingri Machher Malai Curry (Prawns in Coconut Milk Curry).
- Kosha Mangsho (Mutton Curry): Kosha Mangsho is a slow-cooked mutton curry that is made with spices and yogurt. It is a rich and flavorful dish that is perfect for special occasions.
- Biryani: Biryani is a rice dish that is made with meat, vegetables, and spices. It is a popular dish all over India, but the Bengali version is known for its unique flavor and aroma.
- Rasmalai: Rasmalai is a popular Bengali dessert that is made with cheese balls soaked in sweetened milk and flavored with cardamom. It is a delicious and rich dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Mishti Doi: Mishti Doi is a sweet yogurt that is made with milk and fermented with a special type of yogurt culture. It is a popular dessert in West Bengal, and it is also known as the “king of yogurts.”
Other notable dishes
- Aloo Posto (Potato in Poppy Seed Gravy): Aloo Posto is a simple but delicious dish that is made with potatoes and poppy seeds. It is a popular side dish for both fish and meat curries.
- Luchi-Aloor Dom (Luchi and Potato Curry): Luchi-Aloor Dom is a popular breakfast dish in West Bengal. Luchi is a deep-fried flatbread, and Aloor Dom is a potato curry. The two dishes are typically served together with a side of chutney.
- Dhokar Dalna (Lentil Dumplings in Gravy): Dhokar Dalna is a vegetarian dish that is made with lentil dumplings and gravy. It is a popular dish for lunch and dinner.
- Chingri Machher Malai Curry (Prawns in Coconut Milk Curry): Chingri Machher Malai Curry is a rich and flavorful dish that is made with prawns, coconut milk, and spices. It is a popular dish for special occasions.
- Chatpati Aloo (Spicy Potatoes): Chatpati Aloo is a popular street food in West Bengal. It is made with potatoes that are deep-fried and then tossed in a spicy sauce.
Where to eat
If you’re looking to try authentic Bengali cuisine, there are many great restaurants in Kolkata and other parts of West Bengal. Some of the most popular restaurants include:
- Oh! Calcutta: Oh! Calcutta is a popular chain of restaurants that serves authentic Bengali cuisine.
- Peter Cat: Peter Cat is a popular restaurant in Kolkata that is known for its Chelo Kebabs.
- Alfresco: Alfresco is a popular restaurant in Kolkata that serves a variety of Bengali dishes, including fish curries, meat curries, and biryanis.
- 6 Ballygunge Place: 6 Ballygunge Place is a popular restaurant in Kolkata that serves a variety of Bengali dishes, including Kosha Mangsho and Mishti Doi.
- Kookie Jar: Kookie Jar is a popular bakery in Kolkata that serves a variety of Bengali sweets, including Rasmalai and Mishti Doi.
Conclusion
Bengali cuisine is a diverse and delicious cuisine that has something to offer everyone. If you’re ever in West Bengal, be sure to try some of the local dishes. You won’t be disappointed!
Myma… Ghar jaisa nahi, Ghar ka khana!
