Street food of Kolkata

Overview of street food in Kolkata

Street Food of Kolkata

Street food vendor in Kolkata

The street food of Kolkata, the capital city of the Indian state of West Bengal, is renowned for its rich variety and vibrant flavors. The city, often referred to as the "Cultural Capital of India," offers a diverse array of street food that reflects its multicultural heritage. From spicy snacks to sweet treats, Kolkata's street food is a culinary delight for locals and tourists alike.

Popular Street Foods

Puchka

Puchka vendor

Puchka, known as Panipuri in other parts of India, is a popular street food in Kolkata. It consists of hollow, crispy puris filled with a mixture of spicy tamarind water, mashed potatoes, and chickpeas. The unique blend of flavors and textures makes puchka a favorite among street food enthusiasts.

Kathi Roll

Kathi roll

The Kathi roll is another iconic street food originating from Kolkata. It is a wrap made with paratha bread filled with various ingredients such as spiced chicken, mutton, or paneer, along with onions and sauces. The roll is a convenient and delicious meal on the go.

Jhalmuri

Jhalmuri is a spicy snack made with puffed rice, peanuts, chopped onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. It is a popular snack that is both light and flavorful, often served in paper cones by street vendors.

Telebhaja

Telebhaja refers to a variety of deep-fried snacks, including beguni (batter-fried eggplant), alur chop (potato fritters), and peyaji (onion fritters). These crispy delights are typically enjoyed with a cup of hot tea, especially during the monsoon season.

Chop

Chop is a term used for various types of fried snacks, similar to telebhaja. Common varieties include fish chop, mutton chop, and vegetable chop, each offering a unique taste and texture.

Mughlai Paratha

Mughlai paratha is a stuffed flatbread filled with a mixture of minced meat, eggs, and spices. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is often served with a side of spicy potato curry or chutney.

Ghugni

Ghugni is a spicy curry made with dried yellow peas, often garnished with chopped onions, green chilies, and coriander leaves. It is a popular street food that can be enjoyed on its own or with bread.

Churmur

Churmur is a tangy and spicy snack made with crushed puchkas, boiled potatoes, and tamarind chutney. It is similar to puchka but offers a different texture and flavor profile.

Sweet Treats

Rasgulla

Rasgulla is a famous Bengali sweet made from chhena (Indian cottage cheese) and semolina dough, cooked in sugar syrup. It is soft, spongy, and melts in the mouth, making it a beloved dessert in Kolkata.

Sandesh

Sandesh is another popular sweet made from chhena, often flavored with cardamom or saffron and garnished with pistachios or almonds. It is a delicacy that showcases the artistry of Bengali confectionery.

Mishti Doi

Mishti doi is a traditional Bengali sweet yogurt, made by fermenting sweetened milk. It is creamy, rich, and often served in earthen pots, adding to its unique flavor.

Beverages

Tea stall in Kolkata

Chai

Chai, or tea, is an integral part of Kolkata's street food culture. Served in small clay cups, known as "bhaar," chai is often enjoyed with snacks like telebhaja or biscuits.

Lassi

Lassi is a refreshing yogurt-based drink, often flavored with rose water or cardamom. It is a popular choice to cool down during the hot summer months.

Street Food Culture

Kolkata's street food culture is not just about the food; it is an experience that reflects the city's vibrant spirit. Street vendors, known as "hawkers," play a crucial role in the city's culinary landscape, offering affordable and delicious options to people from all walks of life. The bustling streets, the aroma of spices, and the lively interactions between vendors and customers create a unique atmosphere that is quintessentially Kolkata.

Related Pages

• Cuisine of West Bengal
• Indian cuisine
• Street food