Kolkata is undoubtedly one of the major gastronomic cities of India. Come rains and the city finds one more excuse to begin feasting on some of the most delightful delicacies. And even though the city has the reputation of drowning within the 30 minutes of the downpour, Bengalis can’t stop themselves from gorging on the street food, gulping it down with some tea and some more tea.
While rains help in bidding the humid weather a goodbye, it is also a reason for Bengalis to devour some of the traditional receipes that go hand in hand with the rainy season. We have picked some of them so you can try hem at a restaurant or even at the comfort of your kitchen.
Egg Chicken Roll
The quintessential Bengali style egg roll is every street food lover’s favourite. But if you have still not tried it, then staying away from the savoury egg roll would be a crime. The succulent chicken along with the fluffy omellette wrapped inside the soft paratha is a treat that is dipped in deliciousness.
Illish/Hilsa
HIlsa fish is a luxury that very Bengali dreams of having during Monsoon. Bengalis can give French a run for their money as Hilsa to Kolkata is the caviar to France. Bengalis will eat fish, no matter whether it drizzles or pours. Hilsa fish, slightly tossed in white mustard gravy with a drizzle of mustard oil, is best served with steamed rice.
Watch: Monsoon beauty of Kolkata
Begun bhaja
This is the Bengali version of the famous pakoda found in North India. Fried brinjal fritter, begun bhaja is the classic Monsoon snack that is found in most of the households of Kolkata the moment it starts to rain in the city. Whether you like to have it the way street vendors give or make it at home, begun bhaja is a staple when it is drizzling outside.
Moong dal khichdi
Another favourite amongst Bengali families, moong dal khichdi is the comfort food that is synonymous with Monsoon in Kolkata. Sometimes plain or mixed with vegetables, khichdi is often served along with side dishes like aloo chokha and tomato chutney.
Jhalmuri with aloo chop
The best of Monsoon treats for taste buds in Kolkata is yet to come. Consisting of puffed rice, chopped onions, chillis, tomatoes, coriander and spices, finally tossed in mustard oil, Jhalmuri is a light and entirely satisfying snack to have in Monsoon.
Dimer Devil
Be it the first shower or days of incessant rains, nothing stop Bengalis from laying their hands on the famous dimer devil. These devils are made with half hard boiled eggs, wrapped with potato mixture, dipped in batter, coated with bread crumbs and then deep fried.
This Monsoon, let’s not stick to the same old traditional cup of tea but must discover Monsoon snacks of different cuisine to savour the flavor of the rainy day.
Featured Image Credit: sinfullyspicy.com
