The love for Bengal and its food is not unknown to the world. From popular Indo-Chinese cuisine to the royal city food culture – we come across a wide array of cuisines that have left a strong impression on our mind and palate. In fact, each of these dishes carries a rich history and heritage that tells about the different sects of people who have settled in Bengal over generations and how they influenced the rhythm of Bengal. Another such popular dish in Bengal is Mughlai. Mughlai cuisine evolved into the royal kitchens of the Mughal Empire, starting with the rule of Babur (who started the Mughal Empire in India in the 16th century). Then over the years, the cuisine traveled to different states and found its unique adaptations according to the palate of the region. In Bengal, it saw potatoes in biryani, kebabs in Mughlai parathas (popularly known as chicken rolls) and more. And to taste Mughal cuisine in Bengal, we suggest exploring the alleys of Kolkata’s Zakaria Street.
Photo Credit: NDTV Food
Situated right next to the historic Nakhoda Masjid in Kolkata, these lanes 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 across the world is observing Ramadan from April 2, 2022 and will end on May 2, 2022. A typical day during Ramadan begins with Sehri and ends with the evening prayer, followed by iftar, And during this time Zakaria Street hits the streets for Iftar after the evening prayers at Nakhoda Mosque. He is not everything. People from across cities and religious beliefs unite at this time of year to enjoy Kebabs, Biryani, Haleem and much more. It would not be an exaggeration to say that such a scenario reaffirms the spirit of Kolkata.
With that in mind, we bring you five of our favorite foods that are a must try during Ramadan when exploring Zakaria Street—Kolkata’s biggest Ramadan market. let’s take a look.
Ramzan 2022: Here are 5 things you must try in Zakaria Street, Kolkata:
1. Kebabs:
The idea of Mughlai cuisine immediately reminds us of juicy, delectable kebabs. You will find a variety of unique kebabs throughout the region that melt in your mouth. We suggest trying kebabs at Dilshad, a food joint that is over 100 years old, and start your indulgent tour with it.
(Also read: Ramadan 2022: 5 meat dishes to make ‘Iftar’ a delicious affair,
Photo Credit: NDTV Food
2. Haleem:
Also known as dal gosht, it is a delicious, nutrient-rich and nutritious meal made from meat, barley, lentils and much more. It is usually served with tandoori roti or roomali roti. Try Haleem at Sufia Restaurant Zakaria Street,
Photo Credit: NDTV Food
3. Chicken Changzi:
You have eaten Chicken Changi in the northern part of India; right? Now we suggest, try it at Zakaria street. As soon as you enter Zakaria Gali, the first thing you will find is Restaurant Delhi 6. Apart from chicken changeji, you can also have fried chicken, fried fish and phirni.
(Also read: Ramadan 2022: 5 Mutton Biryani Recipes That Can Enjoy Your Iftar Meal,
Photo Credit: NDTV Food
4. Halwa Paratha:
You really don’t need to go anywhere for this. Just take a walk in the street and try the smooth pudding and paratha, The combination of flaky, thin parathas and halwa makes the bhog mesmerizing.
Photo Credit: NDTV Food
5. Macaroni:
And lastly, don’t forget to grab some Lachha Sevai on your way back home. Prepare Kheer, Doodh Sevai and Kimami Sevai with this delicious recipe. Do try it.