Begin with Kathi Rolls
Kathi Rolls stand as an iconic street food item in Kolkata, perfectly embodying the city's diverse culinary scene. Originating from Nizam's, these rolls
feature succulent kebabs wrapped in a paratha, often accompanied by onions, chilies, and various sauces. The blend of flavors is delightful, with the soft paratha complementing the flavorful kebabs and fresh vegetables. Several places serve different variations, allowing you to try different fillings and sauces to find your favorites. Eating Kathi rolls is a quick way to satisfy your hunger while exploring Kolkata's festive streets. They're a quick and satisfying meal, ensuring you have the energy to enjoy the festivities.
Experience the Puchka Magic
Puchkas, the tiny, crisp, and round delights, are an quintessential part of Kolkata's street food landscape, especially during Durga Puja. These hollow spheres are filled with a tangy tamarind-based water, spiced mashed potatoes, and chickpeas. The perfect puchka is a balance of textures and flavors: the initial crunch of the puri, the burst of cold, spicy water, and the satisfying filling. Vendors often have their own secret spice blends, so each place presents a slightly different experience. Devouring puchkas is a quintessential Kolkata experience. Be prepared for a sensory explosion with every bite, and consider your experience complete when you are left wanting more.
Relish the Fish Fry
Fish Fry, a beloved snack, finds its place amongst the must-try foods during Durga Puja. Typically made with Bhetki or Pomfret, the fish is marinated in spices, coated in breadcrumbs or batter, and deep-fried until golden and crisp. The inside remains incredibly tender and flavorful. It's a classic dish, often enjoyed with Kasundi (mustard sauce) and lemon wedges. Fish Fry is a flavorful and satisfying snack, perfect for those looking for a quick bite while enjoying the vibrant festival atmosphere. You'll find many stalls and restaurants offering their own versions, so try a few to experience the wide array of flavors that Kolkata has to offer.
Savor the Mutton Biryani
Mutton Biryani is a rich, fragrant rice dish that many consider a must-have during Durga Puja in Kolkata. Often, this Biryani has long-grain basmati rice layered with tender mutton pieces, potatoes, and aromatic spices, including saffron and cardamom. The slow cooking process ensures each grain of rice is infused with flavor, and the meat becomes unbelievably tender. It is typically served with a side of raita. Whether enjoyed at a restaurant or from a street vendor, Mutton Biryani offers a filling, satisfying experience perfect for refueling while taking in the festive environment. It's a truly delicious food item.
Indulge in Kosha Mangsho
Kosha Mangsho, a rich and flavorful mutton curry, has a special place in the hearts of Bengali food lovers and is a key item during Durga Puja. The meat is cooked for hours in a thick gravy of onions, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices, resulting in a tender texture and a rich, savory flavor. The preparation usually involves slow cooking on a low flame to make the flavors blend. The depth of flavor in Kosha Mangsho is enhanced by the use of mustard oil. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish, often paired with rice or paratha, which makes it ideal for enjoying amidst the festive celebrations.
Try the Luchi and Aloo Dum
Luchi, a fluffy, deep-fried flatbread, is a staple in Bengali cuisine and is often eaten with Aloo Dum, a spiced potato curry, during Durga Puja. Luchi is prepared with plain flour, which is deep-fried till it puffs up, making it soft and delicious. Aloo Dum, on the other hand, consists of small potatoes cooked in a rich, spiced gravy. The gravy often includes tomatoes, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices. The combination of Luchi and Aloo Dum is a classic, offering a satisfying and balanced meal. It is a must-try experience during Durga Puja, bringing both comforting and delightful flavors.
Explore the Mishti Doi
Mishti Doi, a sweet yogurt dessert, is a sweet treat during the Durga Puja. Prepared by slowly heating milk, adding sugar, and allowing it to ferment, Mishti Doi has a caramelized flavor and a creamy texture. It is typically served in earthen pots, which enhance the taste and provide a cooling effect. Its simplicity is a great way to finish a meal or take a break from exploring the festivities. Its sweetness and creamy texture make it a beloved dessert for Bengalis and visitors alike. It's an easy way to balance out the savory flavors of the various dishes you try.
Taste the Sandesh
Sandesh is a traditional Bengali sweet available in various forms, especially during Durga Puja. Made from fresh chenna (paneer) and sugar, Sandesh can be flavored with cardamom, rose water, or nuts. These sweets are then shaped into various forms, from simple squares to elaborate designs. Each bite is delicate and melts in your mouth, offering a rich and satisfying experience. It's a sweet treat that allows you to sample the art of Bengali confectioners. During Durga Puja, you will find multiple varieties, so make sure you try a few to truly experience the diverse tastes Sandesh has to offer.
Enjoy the Roshogolla
Roshogolla, a soft, spongy, and syrupy dessert, is a classic Bengali sweet that's impossible to miss during Durga Puja. These small, ball-shaped sweets are made from chenna, kneaded and boiled in a sugar syrup. They are light, juicy, and soaked with sweetness from the syrup, offering a pleasant taste experience. Roshogollas are a traditional delight, and their fluffy texture makes them a favorite among everyone. Experiencing Roshogolla is a must as it offers a taste of Bengal's culinary heritage. Its simple ingredients make it a popular choice during the busy festivities.
Experience the Chop and Cutlet
Chop and Cutlet are popular snacks, and you will find these in various versions during Durga Puja. Often, chops are made of vegetables (like potato or beetroot), and cutlets feature meat or fish. These are coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried until golden brown. Typically served with Kasundi (mustard sauce), they provide a savory, crispy treat that is perfect for snacking while moving around the Puja pandals. They are easily accessible and delicious. They provide a great contrast to the sweets while also offering a taste of Kolkata's diverse culinary scene.
Have a Misti Paan
Misti Paan, or sweet betel leaf, is a traditional after-meal treat enjoyed during Durga Puja. It contains betel leaf filled with a sweet mixture of areca nuts, fennel seeds, cloves, and other flavoring agents. This combination helps in digestion and refreshes the mouth. Misti Paan gives a satisfying end to the culinary journey. Experiencing the mix of flavors is a refreshing way to enjoy the conclusion of a meal, and helps with the taste. The betel leaves come in a wide variety of combinations that allow you to choose the preferred flavors, making this a fun experience.
Try the Fish Kabiraji
Fish Kabiraji is a classic Kolkata dish that's perfect during Durga Puja. The fish is fried with a delicate egg net, making it crispy and visually appealing. The fish is typically marinated in a blend of spices before being fried. The dish is often served with lemon wedges and a side of onions. Fish Kabiraji is both rich in taste and texture. The mix of flavors and the crunchy egg net add to the overall experience, making it one of the must-try dishes during this festival. This dish is a treat for those looking for a flavorful experience.
