When we talk about the food of Kolkata or West Bengal, the first thing that often comes to mind is fish and rice. There's no doubt that this is a staple food of the state. But you might be surprised to learn that Bengali cuisine has a very rich and diverse history of vegetarian dishes.

Yes, so if you're planning a trip to Bengal and are a pure vegetarian, you don't need to be disappointed. Here you can find many delicious vegetarian dishes that you should definitely try.

Luchi and Alur Dom

In Kolkata, breakfast often means 'Luchi and Alur Dom'. Luchi is a soft, white puri made from refined flour, served with spicy 'Alur Dom' (potato curry). This Alur Dom is slightly different from the North Indian version; it's a blend of sweet and spicy flavors.

Shukto

Bengali lunches often begin with 'Shukto'. This is a bitter-sweet stew-like dish made with various vegetables such as drumsticks, raw bananas, eggplant, and bitter gourd. It's prepared with milk and mustard paste, which makes it incredibly nutritious and delicious.

Aloo Posto

Poppy seeds (posto) are an integral part of Bengali cuisine. In 'Aloo Posto', potatoes are cooked slowly with a poppy seed paste and green chilies. Its mild flavor and earthy aroma are wonderful with rice.

Dhokar Dalna

If you want to try something truly regal, then you must try 'Dhokar Dalna'. In this dish, lentil cakes made from Bengal gram are fried and then cooked in a spicy gravy. This dish is so delicious that you'll forget you're eating vegetarian food.

Chholar Dal

This is Bengal's famous Bengal gram lentil dish. It's made with small pieces of coconut, ghee, and whole spices. The slightly sweet taste of this dal sets it apart from ordinary lentil dishes. It is often served with hot luchis (deep-fried flatbreads).

Mishti Doi

A trip to Bengal is incomplete without 'Mishti Doi'. This is a thick, creamy, and sweet yogurt that is set in earthen pots. Its light brown color comes from the caramelization of the sugar.

Kolkata Veg Kathi Roll

Kolkata's street food is famous worldwide. The city's veg kathi roll, filled with vegetables, chutneys, and spices, is a perfect evening snack.

Ghugni

This is a spicy curry made with white peas, garnished with finely chopped onions, green chilies, and a squeeze of lemon juice. It's a popular snack found on every street corner in Kolkata.

Begun Bhaja

'Begun' means eggplant, and 'bhaja' means fried. Large, round slices of eggplant are seasoned with turmeric and salt and then fried in mustard oil until crispy. It's a perfect side dish to go with dal and rice.

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