Known as the Cultural Capital of the nation that paved the way for the Indian Renaissance, Kolkata’s diverse history is evident from its traditional cuisine featuring subtle nuances from strong cultural influences of Mughals, Armenians, Parsis, and the British. When it comes to the food, there’s more to Kolkata than just ‘Roshogulla’ and ‘Sondesh’ as the entire state of West Bengal is filled to the brim with gastronomic wonders; maybe that’s the reason why Kolkata is known as the 'City of Joy' because what’s more joyous than being home to quite literally the best-tasting food in the entire country?
So, to make my point here's a list of the best Kolkata famous food preparations along with the best EazySafe+ certified safe restaurants in Kolkata you can visit to enjoy these authentic delicacies without any safety concerns.
Best Traditional Dishes of Kolkata:
Macher Jhol (Fish curry)
Fish forms an integral component of Bengali cooking. When we talk about Bengali cuisine, Macher Jhol is always pretty high on the list of Kolkata famous food, paired with rice it is considered the staple diet in Kolkata and makes for a delicious meal loved by the locals and tourists alike. Macher Jhol is a traditional, spicy curry, which also includes a medley of veggies including potatoes and tomatoes and usually seasoned with turmeric, garlic, onions, and grated ginger.
Another popular delicacy originating from Bengal is the heart Mutton curry or as the people of the land fondly call it- Kosha Mangsho. The spicy curry is prepared with mutton, a range of vegetables (usually including tomatoes and onions), and topped up with a variety of authentic spices to give it that flavorful zing and the quintessential rich brown color.
Shorshe Ilish (Hilsa Fish Cooked in Mustard Gravy)
Bengalis take their fish seriously and when it comes to the classic Ilish there's nothing more serious and close to their heart than this mustard-based Hilsa delicacy, which is one of the many famous dishes of Kolkata. Available in abundance during the monsoon, Hilsa is an integral part of the culturally rich Kolkata's heritage. Not only is it the staple diet, but also an indispensable legacy that marks every important occasion in a true blue Bengali's life.
Shukto is another traditional Bengali delicacy considered as one of the best vegetarian recipes by the locals. It is medley of a variety of vegetables like potato, pumpkin, bottle gourd, and bitter gourd and tastes partly bitter, partly sweet, and completely delicious. typically paired with rice or a traditional flatbread, Shukto is a unique concoction of balanced ingredients that suits almost all palates.
Aloo Posto (Spiced Potatoes Cooked in Poppy Seeds)
This is a classic Bengali delicacy which is mostly served as a side dish in almost every Bengali household. Sparing in its utilization of spices, this preparation relies on the flavors bring forth by potatoes, green chilies, and roasted poppy seeds. Featuring a nutty and rich flavor, Aloo Posto is usually cooked with mustard oil and served with Bengali flatbread.
Kolkata's one of the favorite carb-treats Luchi is a deep-fried flatbread made from maida flour. Its quite like the North Indian Puri or Bhatura and enjoyed best with Aloo Posto and can also be paired with any rich curry of choice. Truly a comforting Bengali snack.
Besides 'Roshogulla' and 'Sondesh', Mishti Doi is also a delectable traditional sweet which is wildly popular and loved by the locals of Kolkata. Mishti Doi is a fermented sweet Doi or Yogurt originating from Bengal. Over the decades this age-old quintessential Bengali sweet has become so popular that now packaged versions of it are available ubiquitously in grocery stores all across India.
Gargi Bisht is an event copywriter/conceptualizer turned writer currently working with EazyDiner Pvt. Ltd. Compulsive eater, book hoarder, dog lover and pop culture enthusiast with an innate love for storytelling. Usually the quietest person in the room, Gargi is an introvert who loves her own company. When not eating, can be found in front of her laptop watching movies. Knows a thing or two about art and literature.
