Kolkata, the “City of Joy,” is famous for its delicious street food. If you visit, you must try the amazing flavours from its bustling food stalls. In this guide, we’ll talk about the best street food in Kolkata that everyone loves.
1. Puchkas
One of the top street foods in Kolkata is puchkas. These crispy, hollow balls are filled with spicy and tangy water. In some places, they are called panipuri or golgappa, but in Kolkata, they are known as puchkas. The mixture of mashed potatoes, tamarind, and spices inside will burst in your mouth with flavour. You will find puchka vendors on almost every corner of the city. They are a must-try for anyone visiting Kolkata.
2. Kathi Rolls
Kolkata is also the birthplace of the Kathi Roll. This famous snack is a paratha, rolled up with delicious fillings like spicy chicken, egg, or paneer. The roll is easy to eat and super tasty, making it a favourite among locals and tourists alike. The mix of juicy, spicy filling and soft paratha is unforgettable.
3. Jhalmuri
Jhalmuri is a simple yet yummy snack that people love to eat on the go. It’s made of puffed rice mixed with chopped onions, green chilies, peanuts, mustard oil, and spices. This light, crunchy treat is perfect for a quick bite while exploring the streets of Kolkata. It’s spicy, tangy, and totally delicious.
4. Ghugni Chaat
Another famous Kolkata street food is Ghugni Chaat. It’s a spicy snack made with dried white peas, tamarind sauce, onions, and green chilies. It’s warm, filling, and perfect to eat during the evening. The blend of soft peas and tangy tamarind will make your taste buds dance.
5. Shingara
If you love samosas, you will enjoy Kolkata’s version called Shingara. It is a deep-fried snack filled with spicy potatoes, peas, or even chicken or fish. Shingaras are crispy on the outside and soft and spicy on the inside. They are often served with sweet and sour chutneys, making them a delightful snack for tea time.
6. Telebhaja
Telebhaja is another street snack that Kolkata is known for. These deep-fried fritters are made from vegetables like potatoes, eggplant, and onions, coated in a batter of gram flour. They are crunchy and best eaten hot. Telebhaja is often enjoyed with a cup of tea, especially during the rainy season.
7. Churmur
For a snack similar to puchkas but slightly different, try Churmur. It’s made by crushing puchkas and mixing them with mashed potatoes, spices, tamarind pulp, and green chilies. The mix of crunchy and soft textures with a hint of tanginess makes it a unique and tasty dish that’s hard to resist.
Read More: 10 Best Street Food in Bangalore: Top Must-Try Delicacies
8. Mishti Doi
Kolkata is also known for its sweets, and Mishti Doi is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. It’s a fermented sweet yogurt that’s creamy and rich. The balance of sweetness and tangy yogurt makes it a refreshing dessert after trying all the spicy street food.
9. Chowmein
Kolkata’s version of Chowmein is a popular street food that’s a mix of Indian and Chinese flavours. It’s stir-fried noodles with vegetables, eggs, and sometimes chicken, all tossed in spices and sauces. The combination of soft noodles with crunchy veggies and spicy sauces is loved by people of all ages.
10. Mughlai Paratha
The Mughlai Paratha is a famous street food in Kolkata that’s perfect for those who love rich, filling snacks. It’s a paratha stuffed with eggs, minced meat, and spices, then fried to golden perfection. It’s often served with a side of spicy potato curry or chutney. This dish is quite hearty and makes for a satisfying meal.
The street food in Kolkata is an adventure for your taste buds. From spicy snacks like puchkas and jhalmuri to sweet treats like mishti doi, there’s something for everyone. When you visit Kolkata, make sure to explore its streets and try these tasty treats. It’s an experience you won’t forget!