As the mercury rises and the sun beats down relentlessly, Kolkata comes alive with a vibrant culinary scene that caters to the cravings and comforts of its inhabitants during the scorching summer months. From refreshing street snacks to traditional Bengali delicacies, the city offers a diverse array of dishes that tantalize the taste buds and provide respite from the sweltering heat. This article takes you on a culinary journey through the streets of Kolkata, exploring the best summer foods that locals and visitors alike can indulge in.
1. Phuchka (Pani Puri)
No culinary tour of Kolkata is complete without indulging in the quintessential street snack, phuchka, known as pani puri in other parts of India. These crispy, hollow puris filled with a spicy and tangy mixture of tamarind water, mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and spices provide the perfect burst of flavor and coolness on a hot summer day. Head to iconic street food hubs like Vivekananda Park or Gariahat Market to sample some of the best phuchkas in the city.
2. Aam Porar Shorbot (Raw Mango Drink)
Aam Porar Shorbot, a traditional Bengali summer drink made from raw mangoes, sugar, salt, and spices, is a favorite among Kolkatans for its refreshing taste and cooling properties. The tanginess of the raw mangoes combined with the sweetness of sugar and the kick of spices creates a delightful concoction that helps beat the heat. Look out for street vendors selling this seasonal specialty in clay pots along the bustling streets of Kolkata.
3. Kulfi
Kolkata’s love affair with kulfi, a dense and creamy frozen dessert, reaches its peak during the summer months. Whether it’s the classic flavors like malai or kesar, or innovative variations like paan or rose, kulfi vendors across the city offer a wide range of options to satisfy your sweet cravings and provide relief from the heat. Head to iconic sweet shops like Nahoum’s or Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick to indulge in some of the best kulfis in Kolkata.
4. Ghugni Chaat
Ghugni Chaat, a popular street food snack made from dried yellow peas cooked with spices and served with chopped onions, green chilies, and tangy tamarind chutney, is a must-try during the summer season. This flavorful and filling dish is not only delicious but also provides a much-needed energy boost to combat the heat. Head to local street food stalls and markets like New Market or College Street to savor the authentic taste of Kolkata-style ghugni chaat.
5. Mishti Doi (Sweet Yogurt)
No summer food journey in Kolkata is complete without indulging in the quintessential Bengali dessert, mishti doi. This sweetened yogurt, set in clay pots to infuse a unique earthy flavor, is a beloved treat among locals and visitors alike. Creamy, tangy, and mildly sweet, mishti doi provides a refreshing and cooling respite from the summer heat. Look out for sweet shops and dessert parlors across the city to sample this delightful delicacy.
6. Mango Sandesh
During the summer months, Kolkata’s sweet shops are adorned with trays of mango sandesh, a delectable variation of the classic Bengali sweet made from cottage cheese and sugar. Infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of ripe mangoes, mango sandesh is a delightful treat that captures the essence of the season. Head to iconic sweet shops like KC Das or Banchharam to indulge in this seasonal specialty.
Embracing the Flavors of Summer
From tangy street snacks to sweet treats, Kolkata’s culinary landscape offers a delightful array of dishes to savor during the summer months. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of the city or relaxing in the comfort of your home, these summer foods are sure to tantalize your taste buds and provide a much-needed respite from the sweltering heat. So, embrace the flavors of summer and indulge in the culinary delights that Kolkata has to offer.
