Bengal and their love of food are not unknown to the world. From the popular Indochinese cuisine to the royal Sheherwali food culture, we find an extensive range of cuisines that have made a strong impression on our minds and taste buds. In fact, each of these cuisines carries with it a rich history and heritage that speaks about different sects of people who have settled in Bengal over generations and how they have influenced the Bengal palate. Another such popular cuisine in Bengal is Mughlai. Mughlai cuisine developed in the royal kitchens of the Mughal Empire from the rule of Babar (who founded the Mughal Empire in India in the 16th century). Then, over the years, the cuisine traveled to different states, finding their unique adaptations to the palates of the region. Bengal saw aloo in biryani, kebabs in mughlai paratha (popularly known as chicken buns) and more. And to enjoy Mughal cuisine in Bengal, we recommend exploring the back streets of Zakaria Street in Kolkata.
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Located right next to Kolkata’s historic Nakhoda Masjid, these alleyways offer possibly the best street food in the states. And the experience becomes even more special during the holy month of Ramadan. This year, the Muslim community around the world is observing Ramadan from April 2, 2022 to May 2, 2022. A typical day during Ramadan begins with Sehri and ends with evening prayers, followed by Iftar. And Zakaria Street brightens up during this time as people take to the streets for iftar after their evening prayers at the Nakhoda Masjid. That’s not all. People from all over the city and with different religious beliefs gather at this time of year to enjoy kebabs, biryanis, haleem and more. It is no exaggeration to say that such a scenario confirms the spirit of Kolkata.
With that in mind, we bring you five of our favorite must-try foods during Ramadan as you explore Zakaria Street – Kolkata’s largest Ramzan market. Let’s take a look.
Ramadan 2022: Here are 5 things you must try in Zakaria Street, Kolkata:
1. Kebab:
The idea of Mughlai cuisine immediately reminds us of the succulent, delicious kebabs. Throughout the area you will find several unique types of kebabs that melt in your mouth in no time. We suggest try the kebabs at the over 100 year old Dilshad snack bar and start your enjoyment tour with them.
(Also read: Ramadan 2022: 5 Gosht Recipes to Make Iftar a Delicious Affair)
Photo credit: NDTV Essen
2. Halem:
Also referred to as Dal Gosht, it’s a delicious, nutrient-dense, and healthy food made from meat, barley, lentils, and more. It is generally served with tandoori roti or roomali roti. Try Haleem at Sufia Restaurant on Zakaria Street.
Photo credit: NDTV Essen
3. Chicken Changezi:
They ate chicken changezi in the northern part of India; To the right? Now we suggest try Zakaria Street. When you enter Zakaria Street, you will find one of the first restaurants, Dilli 6. Besides Chicken Changezi, you can also have fried chicken, fried fish and phirni.
(Also Read: Ramadan 2022: 5 Mutton Biryani Recipes to Enjoy Your Iftar Meal)
Photo credit: NDTV Essen
4. Halva Paratha:
You literally don’t have to go anywhere for this. Just take a stroll down the alley and try the greasy halwa and paratha. The combination of flaky, thin paratha and halwa enchants enjoyment.
Photo credit: NDTV Essen
5. Sewai:
And don’t forget to pick up some Laccha Sewai on the way home. Prepare kheer, doodh sewai and kimami sewai with this tasty delicacy. Try it.
Happy Ramadan 2022!
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