“Feast on Kolkata’s Finest: Uncovering the Best Street Food Delights of Durga Puja”
Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is renowned for its artistic heritage, grand festivals, and, of course, its delectable street food. Durga Puja, the city’s most significant festival, is a time when the streets come alive with the mouthwatering aroma of various snacks and treats. As the city dons its festive finery, let’s embark on a culinary journey to explore the best street food in Kolkata during Durga Puja.
- Kathi Rolls: Begin your gastronomic adventure with Kolkata’s famous Kathi Rolls. These delicious wraps consist of tender kebabs or succulent pieces of chicken, mutton, or paneer wrapped in a paratha. During Durga Puja, you can find Kathi Roll stalls at every corner, each offering a unique blend of spices and flavors.
- Phuchka (Pani Puri): Phuchka, known as Pani Puri in other parts of India, is an all-time favorite street food in Kolkata. These crispy hollow balls are filled with spicy tamarind water, mashed potatoes, and a medley of spices. The burst of flavors in your mouth is a must-try experience during the festivities.
- Jhal Muri: Jhal Muri is a spicy and tangy snack made with puffed rice, peanuts, mustard oil, and an assortment of spices. It’s a beloved street food, especially during Durga Puja, and can be customized to suit your spice preference.
- Aloo Kabli: This delightful concoction features boiled and spiced potatoes, chickpeas, and tamarind chutney. Aloo Kabli is a fantastic street food option to keep you energized as you explore the colorful pandals.
- Mughlai Paratha: As the name suggests, Mughlai Paratha is a royal treat. This deep-fried, stuffed paratha is filled with minced meat, eggs, and a mix of aromatic spices. It’s a heavy but incredibly satisfying street food dish that you can indulge in during Durga Puja.
- Ghugni: Ghugni is made from boiled yellow peas, cooked with spices and served with a dash of tamarind chutney. It’s a warm and comforting street food that’s perfect for the mild autumn evenings of Durga Puja.
- Chops and Cutlets: Kolkata’s chops and cutlets are a diverse range of deep-fried snacks made from ingredients like minced meat, vegetables, and fish. You’ll find a wide variety, including the famous fish cutlets and mutton chops, available at numerous street food stalls.
- Biriyani: Kolkata is celebrated for its sumptuous biryani, and Durga Puja is an excellent time to savor this aromatic delight. The flavors of the biryani are enhanced by the special masala mix and the slow-cooked preparation.
- Sweets and Desserts: No visit to Kolkata is complete without trying its famous sweets. During Durga Puja, shops and street vendors offer a wide array of Bengali sweets such as Sandesh, Rosogolla, and Mishti Doi, often presented in a more festive and decorative manner.
- Ice Cream Rolls: To cool down after indulging in spicy street food, try the ice cream rolls. These are made by pouring flavored milk onto a cold plate, rolling it up, and topping it with various ingredients like fruits, nuts, and syrups.
As you explore the beautifully adorned Durga Puja pandals and immerse yourself in the festivities, don’t forget to treat your taste buds to the best street food Kolkata has to offer. The blend of flavors, the aroma of spices, and the joy of sharing these delectable treats with locals make Durga Puja in Kolkata an unforgettable culinary experience. So, relish the unique flavors and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the city during this auspicious festival.
