If you are confused by the term “Bong”, let me clarify that this terminology for us basically means Bengali people or the Bengali community as a whole. We Bengali people mainly use it in order to focus on the things which are part of West Bengal. And since we will discuss Bengali food here, we take pride in calling it our bong food. I sincerely hope that this article helps you explore Kolkata better by trying out these mouth-watering delicacies. If you're a true foodie like me, I assure you that you’ll have a happy reading. So let’s get into it!
Phuchka
Everybody is familiar with golgappas and pani-puris right? Phuchka is the Bengali version of these. They are extremely mouth-watering and taste absolutely heavenly. They are the basic street food that Kolkata will offer. Now you will be surprised by the varieties of Phuchka people are coming up with. There are classic doi phuchka, there are churmur, there is Suji puchka , phucka on the shots, and what not?! If craving for a chat then definitely go for phuchkas!
Biryani
Okay, there are a lot of controversies regarding which Biryani is better. The debates are always like Lucknowi biryani vs Hyderabadi Biryani vs Kolkata Biryani and all that. I don’t want to force you upon choosing the Kolkata Biryani but I would recommend you to try it first before making your decision.
I honestly believe when you’ll try it then it will blow your mind. The mix of everything and the aroma, the flavor, the Color, and the taste of everything is insanely delicious. Some of the restaurants you can try in Kolkata for Biryani are Dada- Boudi restaurant, Arsalan restaurant, Amenia restaurant, and street shops are great as well and they're my personal favorite. It is budget-friendly and they give you a good quantity which is perfect for your appetite.
Kochuri’s
If you’re thinking about what morning breakfast you should go for when you’re in Kolkata then Kochuri’s are the ultimate winner. Like the movie “Piku”, you must have seen how much Amitabh Bachchan loved the kochuris, I am sure that you will love it too.
In winter time Koraishutti’s kochuri ( peas stuffed in the kachori) are also amazing and super delicious. It goes great with the alu sabji or Chanar dal. It is my absolute favorite way to start a day.
Rolls
Looking for a Bengali snack that will be a wholesome food to fill up your tummy? Go for a roll! There are egg chicken rolls that taste fabulous and the moment you will finish your roll you will have a feeling of fulfilment in your life. Your heart is connected to your stomach and your heart will feel very content and pleased.
They are also available in the street stalls. Try Mughlai parathas as well. It is like a roll only but it is wrapped up with parathas and chicken, eggs, and onions and is fried in a shape of a square. It goes well with the alu sabji as well. These street foods are to die for honestly.
Plain Rice with Mutton Kasha
I genuinely believe the Bengalis' ultimate food is plain rice and mutton kasha (curry). They complement each other very well. And it is good for the diet, good for the stomach, it is light which is perfect because one does not always like to consume rich foods all the time. It suits mostly everyone’s taste. It is a perfect menu for a light lunch.
Tele bhaja
The term “Tele bhaja” literally means fried in oil. Every Bengali household is familiar with this and it is best for the evening snacks. There are alur chop ( potatoes stuffed), peyaji (onions stuffed), beguni ( eggplant stuffed), which are coated with besan and seasoned and then deep fried into hot oil. They
are extremely crunchy and crispy that makes it super delicious. Try it with muri ( puffed rice) which will bring out the more flavour of these chops. Complement it with a hot cup of cha (tea) to make it a pleasant evening.
Shorshe Ilish
If you have heard that Bengalis have a lot of fish, then you have heard it right. And why shouldn’t we if there are so many unique dishes cooked with different fascinating ingredients? One of the examples is Shorshe Ilish, which is cooked in mustard gravy providing it to be an authentic dish. It is so good that you will be mesmerized. Restaurants you could go to to try this dish are 6 Ballygunge Place, Oh! Calcutta, Kasturi, Koshe Kosha, etc.
Rasgulla
So let’s end on a sweet note, desserts are always at the end because they provide us with the taste of happiness and joy. And as the city of joy, it is natural that Kolkata will have the best varieties of sweets, from chocolate Sandesh to baked MihiDana every item is reward worthy because they taste out of this world. One of the best examples of sweets in Kolkata is Rashogolla (Rasgulla). They are plain and simple but elegant and perfect at the same time. If you have a sweet tooth you have got to try this sweet.
If you visit Kolkata then don’t forget to try these amazing bong foods. Food is an emotion that we all share and love. We must embrace the fact of living and getting to eat incredible food is a great way to live a life. Good food is a good life. So Bon appetit people!
Written by - Rumela Gupta
Edited by - Kritika Sharma
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