Spices & Stories: The Secret Language of Bengali Cooking
Every Bengali kitchen has its recipe book of stories. From the rich aroma of “Kosha Mangsho” on a Sunday afternoon to the comforting simplicity of “Machher Jhol” after a long day, each dish perfectly captures the emotions of everyday life. Bengali cooking is a combination of aromatic spices, trusted techniques, and heritage. At Calcutta Eatery, these culinary traditions are cherished. Each dish holds the essence of old-world kitchens, where the recipe of Calcutta’s legacy resides.
The Rich Spectrum of Bengali Cooking
The variety of Bengali cuisine is immense. From light, bittersweet “Shukto” to deep and indulgent “Chingri Machher Malai Curry,” Bengali cooking touches every aspect of the flavour palate. Nothing goes to waste here. Every part of an animal or plant is savoured. Every part finds a place in a dish. For example, dishes like “Shukto” and “Mochar Chop” contain different parts of the same plant, the Banana. And when it comes to innovation, dishes like “Chingri Bhapa,” “Bhetki Paturi,” and “Dab Chingri” take centre stage.
Calcutta Eatery celebrates this diversity with a menu that reflects a deep respect for culinary traditions and welcomes flavourful innovation. Here, every meal narrates a tale of heritage and reinvention.
The Soul of Bengali Cuisine: Panch Phoron (five spice)
Spices are the foundation of India’s culinary journey. A dish cannot be prepared without them, as they bring depth, flavour, and aroma. At the heart of Bengali cooking lies an intricate blend of 5 spices- cumin (jeera), fennel seeds (sauf), fenugreek seeds (methi), nigella seeds (kalonji), and celery seeds (radhuni). The combination of these spices is known as “Panch Phoron,” where “Panch” means five and “Phoron” means to temper. These spices are sizzled in hot oil to release their fragrance and rich flavour, forming the base of many beloved Bengali dishes like dal, jhol, and even chutneys.
Conclusion
Bengali Cooking is a treasured heirloom that is being passed down through generations, giving rise to a diverse cuisine where every plate is relished with enjoyment. The aromatic blend of Panch Phoron spices infuses each dish with warmth and richness. At Calcutta Eatery, every dish is a tribute to this rich heritage, bringing together time-honoured recipes and contemporary creativity.