6 Must Try Traditional Dishes In Kolkata

Traditional Bengali cuisine is rich in its unique way with lush vegetables, flavorful seafood, hearty meat dishes and plenty of wholesome desserts. Major part experiencing Kolkata like a pro involves indulging yourself into its flavorful local cuisine. To make sure you don’t miss out on what the city’s kitchens have to offer you, we have compiled this list of 6 local dishes you should try while in Kolkata.

# Macher jhol

Fish is an integral component of Bengali cooking. Fried or curried and usually paired with rice, it makes for a delicious meal that seafood lovers should make sure not to miss out on while in Kolkata. Macher jhol is a traditional, spicy curry, which besides fish also includes potatoes and tomatoes. It is usually seasoned with turmeric, garlic, onions, and grated ginger.

# Mishti Doi

This Bengali dessert consisting of fermented sweet yogurt is one of the area’s most famous culinary exports. While you can purchase packaged mishti doi in grocery stores across the country today, you should buy it fresh from one of Kolkata’s legendary sweet shops at least once.

# Kosha Mangsho

This hearty mutton curry is yet another dish that originated in Bengal but which is now popular worldwide. The spicy curry is prepared with mutton, a range of vegetables (usually including tomatoes and onions) and a variety of spices.

# Alur torkari

Featuring potatoes cooked in a thick tomato gravy, this lip-smacking curry is considered Bengali-style comfort food. The dish is usually paired with a flatbread such as chapati or puri.

# Luchi

This deep-fried flatbread is probably Kolkata’s favorite carb treat. Made from maida flour—refined and bleached wheat flour—luchis are usually fried in oil or ghee until they’re crisp. Pair them with alur torkari or any other rich curry for a truly comforting Bengali snack.

# Cholar dal

A Bengali meal isn’t quite complete without a serving of this delicious lentil curry made from Bengal gram or chana dal. Thick, heavily spiced, and sweet, the dish is a hearty companion to luchis or other flatbreads like puri. The dish is also often paired with rice. Cholar dal can be enjoyed for breakfast or dinner—or can even just be eaten as a snack.