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Tanya Tiwari

From Roshogolla to Shorshe Ilish: A Culinary Tour of Bengal

From Roshogolla to Shorshe Ilish: A Culinary Tour of Bengal
Explore six legendary Bengali dishes from syrupy roshogollas to spicy mustard hilsa and creamy mishti doi. Each bite tells a story of tradition, innovation, and nostalgia, making Kolkata a paradise for food lovers.
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Bengali cuisine is an emotional journey of flavours rich, subtle, and soul-satisfying. Rooted in tradition and nostalgia, the dishes from Bengal tell stories of royalty, invention, and celebration. Whether you’re a foodie exploring India’s regional delights or planning your next culinary escape to Kolkata, these six iconic Bengali dishes are an unmissable part of the experience.

Roshogolla – Bengal’s syrupy treasure

Soft, spongy, and soaked in syrup, the iconic roshogolla is Bengal’s gift to the world of sweets. This melt-in-the-mouth dessert was popularised in the 19th century by Nobin Chandra Das, whose legacy lives on through sweet shops across Bengal. Made from chhena (Indian cottage cheese) and dipped in light sugar syrup, the roshogolla is more than a dessert—it's a cultural symbol.

Where to try: Nobin Chandra Das & Sons, Shobha Bazar, Kolkata

Shorshe Ilish – The queen of Bengali fish dishes

No Bengali monsoon is complete without Shorshe Ilish. This dish features hilsa, or ilish, gently cooked in a mustard seed gravy that’s both pungent and piquant. Often paired with steamed rice, Shorshe Ilish brings out the bold, rustic flavours of Bengal. It’s a dish steeped in tradition and beloved across generations.

Where to try: 6 Ballygunge Place – Available across India

Kolkata Biryani – A Nawabi Legacy with a Potato Twist

What makes Kolkata’s biryani stand apart? The humble potato. When Nawab Wajid Ali Shah was exiled to Kolkata in the 1850s, his chefs adapted to budget constraints by adding boiled potatoes to the traditional Awadhi biryani. This innovation gave birth to a unique version of biryani that’s subtle, aromatic, and always includes tender, saffron-kissed potatoes.

Where to try: Arsalan – Locations in Kolkata, Delhi, and Dubai

Hing-er Kochuri – The festive breakfast favourite

A breakfast staple during Durga Puja mornings, Hing-er Kochuri is a puffed, deep-fried bread infused with asafoetida. Served hot with spicy aloo tarkari (potato curry), this dish is packed with nostalgia and flavour. The kochuri’s crisp texture and distinctive aroma make it a beloved Bengali comfort food.

Where to try: Maharaja & Maharani, Lake Gardens, Kolkata

Chingri Malai Curry – Creamy coastal indulgence

A blend of Bengal’s coastal produce and colonial culinary influence, Chingri Malai Curry features juicy prawns simmered in creamy coconut milk with a touch of spice. Luxurious and indulgent, it’s a festive favourite often served during weddings and special occasions.

Where to try: Kasturi Restaurant, Kolkata

Mishti Doi – The sweetest farewell

No Bengali meal is truly complete without Mishti Doi. This thick, creamy, and slightly tangy sweet yogurt is traditionally set in earthen pots, enhancing its flavour and texture. With its deep caramel undertones, it’s a perfect ending to a traditional Bengali feast.

Where to try: Hara Gouri Mistanna Bhandar – Multiple locations in Kolkata

From sweet to savoury, every Bengali dish carries a legacy that goes beyond taste. Whether you're indulging in syrupy roshogollas or feasting on fragrant biryani, Bengal serves up a culinary heritage that’s rich, diverse, and absolutely unforgettable.

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