20 Bengali Dishes to Try Before You Die!

Bengali celebrations like Noboborsho, Durgapujo, Holi, and Kalipujo just aren't the same without delicious Bengali food. We Bengalis love to celebrate our many festivals with our amazing cuisine. While you can find these dishes in Bengali restaurants, you can also easily make them at home whenever you're craving a taste of Bengal! I've included links to recipes for all the Bengali foods mentioned, using recipes and photos from my own blog. Here are "20 Bengali Dishes to Try Before You Die!"

Bengalis are known for their passionate debates about cooking, even down to the types of vegetables used! This is especially true when a Ghoti (someone from West Bengal) meets a Bangal (someone from East Bengal, now Bangladesh). Whether it's a debate over Ilish (hilsa fish) versus Chingri (prawn), or whether to use sugar in cooking, the age-old rivalry between Ghotis and Bangals over their culinary specialties is legendary. But one thing unites them all: the love for "Bong" food! It's that unique Bengali trait of enjoying a plate of Kolkata Biriyani and 50 Phuchkas at the same time, perhaps followed by a little something to settle the stomach! 

Jump to:

• More about 20 Bengali Dishes to Try Before You Die
• Aloo Posto and Biulir Dal
• Bhetki Macher Paturi
• Chingri Malaikari
• Chanar Dalna; for sure a part of this listicle called 20 Bengali Dishes to Try Before You Die
• Cholar Dal
• Dhokar Dalna
• Doi Maach and/or Doi Ilish
• Ghee Bhat
• Ilish Bhapa
• Mangshor Jhol
• Kolkata Biryani, though not Bengali yet Bengali
• Hing er Kachuri ar Aloor Tarkari
• Misti Doi
• Muri Ghonto
• Egg Roll
• Pitha / Pithe
• Potoler Dolma
• Shorshe Maach
• Shukto
• Sandesh
• The 20 Bengali Dishes to Try Before You Die listing and why!
• Have you tried any of the recipes from "The 20 Bengali Dishes to Try Before You Die" list from Debjanir Rannaghar!

More about 20 Bengali Dishes to Try Before You Die

Bengalis adore dishes like Mach Bhat (fish and rice) and Aloo Posto (potato with poppy seeds)! Bengali cuisine has been shaped by various influences. For instance, "Mughlai Food," particularly "Lucknow-Awadhi cuisine" (thanks to Nawab Wajid Ali Shah), led to the creation of "Kolkata Biriyani," easily recognized by its large potato chunk. European and Jewish cuisines heavily influenced Kolkata's bakeries. "Kolkata-style Chinese food" draws inspiration from "Chinese Cuisine," and a Malaysian Prawn Curry evolved into the beloved Chingri Macher Malaikari.

Beyond these influences, Bengali cuisine boasts signature dishes like Aloo Posto, Sandesh (a famous sweet made with cottage cheese), and fish cooked in mustard gravy. I initially planned to list just 10 signature Bengali dishes, but it's incredibly difficult to limit it to only 10! I expanded it to 20, but even that doesn't seem like enough!

Aloo Posto and Biulir Dal

At the very top of my "20 Bengali Dishes to Try Before You Die" list is Aloo Posto. This classic Bengali potato and poppyseed curry is pure comfort food for Bengalis. The heart of this dish is, of course, "Posto," or poppy seeds, a staple ingredient in every Bengali kitchen. I think it's one of the first dishes many Bengalis learn to cook. It definitely earns the number one spot.

And what better to pair with Aloo Posto than "Biulir Daal"? This creamy, white lentil soup, made with black gram and flavored with fennel seeds and ginger paste, is simply divine!

“Aloo Posto” and “Biulir Daal are usually served with steamed rice and are readily available in Bengali restaurants. And you can cook those easily following my recipes.

Bhetki Macher Paturi

Another must-try is Bhetki Macher Paturi, a signature Bengali fish dish. Bhetki fish, marinated in a mustard and coconut paste, is wrapped in a banana leaf and slow-cooked until it's incredibly tender, melting in your mouth with every bite.

If you have fresh Bhetki fish, you can try making Bhetki Paturi at home!

Chingri Malaikari

Another classic dish that represents Bengali cuisine is Chingri Malaikari. This delicious dish sparks much debate about its origins. Some believe it came from Malaysia, while others think it got its name from the coconut cream used to make it.

Chingri Malaikari is a popular choice for Bengali gatherings, and it's easy to see why! Who can resist those jumbo prawns swimming in a rich, creamy coconut gravy? It's usually made with mild spices to highlight the amazing flavors of the prawns and coconut. Here's the recipe of Chingri Macher Malaicurry for you to try.

Chanar Dalna; for sure a part of this listicle called 20 Bengali Dishes to Try Before You Die

And let's not forget Chanar Dalna, a must-try Bengali dish!

Chana isn't paneer! It's made from milk curds and transformed into a flavorful, no-onion, no-garlic curry with large potato pieces. The result is a phenomenal vegan dish. You'll only truly understand the difference between paneer and chana after tasting this delicious curry. Here goes the recipe link to Chanar Dalna.

Cholar Dal

Cholar Dal is a classic Bengali vegetarian dish that beautifully showcases the region's culinary traditions by excluding both onion and garlic. This popular lentil dish features Bengal gram, simmered to a rich, thick consistency and enhanced with the sweetness of coconut pieces and raisins, finished with a generous spoonful of ghee. Often enjoyed with Luchi, Cholar Dal is a truly iconic Bengali creation.

Dhokar Dalna

Another delightful example of Bengali cuisine that omits onion and garlic is Dhokar Dalna. While the recipe may seem a bit intricate, the final dish is surprisingly simple and delicious! At its heart, "Dhoka" refers to lentil cakes, made from a spiced Bengal gram paste. These cakes are then simmered in a flavorful gravy, "Dalna," infused with Bengali Garam Masala and ginger paste. Dhokar Dalna pairs wonderfully with Luchi or steamed rice. Give this Recipe a try; you're sure to love it.

Doi Maach and/or Doi Ilish

Doi Maach (and/or Doi Ilish) highlights the Bengali people's love for fish! Bengali cuisine boasts a wide array of fish preparations, and "Doi Maach" stands out as a particularly delightful one, and it is remarkably easy to prepare.

Making "Doi Maach" is surprisingly simple. This delightful dish features fish, usually Rohu or Hilsa, steamed gently with plain yogurt and a few green chilies for a truly incredible flavor! If you're curious, here are some great recipes for Doi Maach made with Rohu or Katla, as well as the classic Doi Ilish.

Ghee Bhat

Then there's Ghee Bhat, Bengal's special take on Pulao. This rich rice dish is slightly sweet and packed with tasty julienned vegetables and nuts. Ghee Bhat pairs wonderfully with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian spicy curries. If you can't find it at a Bengali restaurant near you, why not try making Ghee Bhat at home?

Ilish Bhapa

Now it's time to talk about the star of the show: the Hilsa. This prized fish, with its delightful taste and aroma, holds a special place in the hearts of Bengalis. We're so passionate about Hilsa, especially when it comes with roe (fish eggs), that we'd do almost anything to get our hands on some, even if it means asking the Prime Minister!

One legendary Bengali dish is "Ilish Bhapa," which simply means steamed Hilsa. It's a surprisingly simple recipe, yet the taste is incredible. Imagine Hilsa steamed with mustard paste, green chilies, and mustard oil – that's all it takes. You can try it at restaurants like "Bhajahari Manna" or "Ohh Calcutta," or even make it at home using the following recipe, Ilish Bhapa.

Mangshor Jhol

What's the best way to describe a typical Bengali Sunday? Relaxed, filled with tea, and a pile of newspapers with lively discussions. And of course, a delicious lunch featuring rice and Mangshor Jhol!

Mangshor Jhol is a light, flavorful mutton curry with tender pieces of potato. Bengalis simply can't resist this classic dish with its heavenly aroma.

While you can find Mangsher Jhol, a light Bengali mutton curry, in many Bengali restaurants, you can easily make Mangshor Jhol (Bengali light Mutton curry) in a Pressure Cooker!

Kolkata Biryani, though not Bengali yet Bengali

And then there's Kolkata Biryani. Although technically not Bengali, we Bengalis have adopted and adapted it to our own tastes, creating something truly special. Kolkata Biryani, inspired by Awadhi Biryani, stands out because it includes a generous piece of potato alongside the meat and egg.

Imagine a plate piled high with fragrant, yellowish-white rice, one or two pieces of tender mutton or chicken, a whole boiled egg, and a large, satisfying chunk of potato! What more could you ask for? I could definitely go for another plate...

If you're in Kolkata and craving this unique dish, be sure to visit India Restaurant, Shiraz, Aminia, Aliya, or Dada Boudir Hotel. For a personal recommendation, I also love Khaja Biriyani Centre, a small biryani shop near Kalighat.

Hing er Kachuri ar Aloor Tarkari

Start your day the Bengali way with delightful Kachoris! These small, round breads are a breakfast must-have, bursting with Hing flavor and perfectly paired with a comforting, runny Aloo sabzi. These deep-fried flatbreads, made from all-purpose flour and filled with Hing and Dal, are known as Hing er Kachori. The accompanying Aloor Tarkari is a flavorful potato dish seasoned with authentic Bengali spices. Be sure to try this classic combination!

Misti Doi

Next, indulge in the popular dessert, Misti Doi (remember to say it with feeling: "Miistii Dooooi!"). This sweet treat is a rich, thickened curd, generously flavored with sugar and traditionally set in an earthen pot. The unique blend of flavors from the curd and the earthy pot is what makes Misti Doi so special.

You can find Misti Doi at nearly every sweet shop in Kolkata. Some of my personal favorites include Sen Mahashay, Ganguram, and Mollar Chawk.

Muri Ghonto

savor the unique flavors of Muri Ghonto, a signature Bengali dish made with rice and the head of a fish, typically Rehu or Katla.

If you love fish and enjoy using the whole fish, especially the head, here's a recipe for Muri Ghonto!

Egg Roll

No list of must-try Bengali dishes would be complete without including street food. While similar to Kathi Rolls found in other parts of India, the Kolkata Egg Roll is unique and can be found on nearly every street corner. You can make it with chicken or mutton, but the classic version, and perhaps the best, is simply made with egg. If you're not in Kolkata but craving an authentic Egg Roll, you can try this recipe to recreate the Kolkata style at home- Kolkata-style Egg Roll.

Pitha / Pithe

Pitha, often called Pithe, are classic Bengali cakes, especially popular during winter. You can find both sweet and savory types, but the sweet ones are definitely the favorites. Names like "Gokul Pithe," "Ras Bara," "Patisapta," and "Golap Pithe" are well-known and are a must-try when exploring Bengali cuisine. Besides Patisapta, Pithe can be tricky to find in stores, so ask your Bengali friends for a homemade box! Here’s a recipe for Patisapta Pitha to get you started- Patisapta Pitha.

Potoler Dolma

Potoler Dolma is a delightful dish that reflects the Bengali love for vegetables, blending them in creative ways. The name "Dolma" comes from Turkish cuisine, where it means stuffed vegetables. This Bengali classic features pointed gourd filled with deliciousness. Traditionally, it's stuffed with mutton keema, but you'll also find variations with chicken, fish, paneer, or lentils.

Shorshe Maach

Shorshe Maach is a signature fish curry made with flavorful mustard paste, also known as Shorshe Bata diye Macher Jhal. It's so good, even Barack Obama enjoyed it!

Can I create a list of 20 must-try Bengali dishes without fish? While Macher Jhal, a flavorful combination of fish and mustard paste, is a classic Bengali dish, let's explore other options. Here's a link to an authentic recipe for Shorse Bata diye Macher Jhal.

Shukto

Shukto, often called "Shuktoni," a truly divine dish! This mixed vegetable medley features bitter gourd and a light gravy, boasting a combination of 8-9 different vegetables. The taste is simply unbeatable! No Bengali Thali, or my list of 20 Bengali Dishes to Try Before You Die, is complete without it. You can find Shukto in many Bengali restaurants, including "Bhajahari Manna" and "Ohh Calcutta." A Bengali cook is often judged by their ability to make the perfect Shukto. Here's a recipe to try making Shukto at home.

Sandesh

While Rosogollas are famous Bengali desserts enjoyed worldwide, Sandesh possesses its own unique charm. From Pranhara to Kancha Golla and Jal Bhara Talsans, the variety of Sandesh is truly impressive.

Made with curdled milk and flavored with different ingredients, Sandesh is a common sight in Bengali sweet shops. If you're in Kolkata, be sure to visit "Bhim Chandra Nag," "Nokur," "Girish Chandra De," and "Balaram," all renowned for this delightful Bengali treat. Here’s a recipe for Kancha Golla, a popular type of Sandesh, for you to try.

The 20 Bengali Dishes to Try Before You Die listing and why!

With so many delicious Bengali dishes to choose from, narrowing it down is tough. But here are my top 20 must-try Bengali foods you absolutely have to experience before you die.

Have you tried any of the recipes from "The 20 Bengali Dishes to Try Before You Die" list from Debjanir Rannaghar!

Do let me know how it came out. Also, I would love to see a picture of the same which you can share here on dolonchttrj@gmail.com. On, Instagram you can use my hashtag #debjanirrannaghar or can tag me at @foodofdebjani.

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