Arguably the most versatile dish that's as good for comfort eating as it's for fine dining, the humble curry may have originated in India but has gone on to take over the world! We're sitting right in the middle of the International Curry Week and as the world gets on board full steam to celebrate the dish, we bring you nine Kolkata curries we love gorging on.
Keep Calm & Curry On: 9 Curries We Love Having In Kolkata
Chingri Malai Curry @ 6 Ballygunge Place
There's no denying (unless you're allergic or a vegetarian) that Chingri Malai Curry (aka, prawn malai curry) tops the list when it comes to Kolkata cuisine. A favourite across the length and breadth of Bengal that has gone on to garner fame in the country and elsewhere, the creamy smooth curry with a hint of sweetness from the coconut milk and those juicy big prawns are just what it takes to make us drool. Of course, my mom's malai curry is the best ever, but if you want something as exceptional, then head over to 6 Ballygunge Place and make a meal of it with plain rice.
Dak Bungalow Mangsho @ Bhojohori Manna
When the Americans have a go at their country chicken with ranch and chipotle sauce, we go indulging on our Dak Bungalow Mangsho that comes packed with the deliciousness of mangsho (meat) and dim (egg). The dish dates back to colonial times and gets its name from the government rest houses (aka Dak Bungalows) where it would be made using local produce by the khansamas (cooks). This one tastes best because of the use of local country chicken/mutton. Bhojohori Manna's Dak Bungalow curry is a serious one to reckon with when you're in the lookout for a good place to try it out.
Rezala @ Sabir's
You've had nothing if you haven't tried Sabir's rezala, when in Kolkata. A city fave, the dish sings of nostalgia, good food and old Kolkata. They say it's a Mughlai dish, but it won't be a stretch to call it a quintessential Bengal dish that has tender meat chunks prepared in a slightly sweet aromatic white gravy rich in cashew and yoghurt. Pair it with their tender, paper-thin roomali roti, and you'll have a meal to remember!
Bhetki Kaalia @ Kasturi
We're proud about it and we don't shy away from owning this - macher jhol will forever take the best place in our hearts and on our plates. A humble dish that's being loved and hated and re-created by one and many, for a Bengali this one is best eaten at home. If you are eating outside, hit up Kasturi for a fabulous dish of Bhetki Kaalia. Made with Kolkata Bhetki (a big-boned river fish), their kaalia (a type of curry) is an aromatic gravy packed with spices. Pair it with simple plain rice and you'll have the best kind of comfort food to dig into.
Kosha Mangsho @ Koshe Kosha
Another one of Kolkata's iconic curries that is a staple at any lavish Bengali meal, the kosha mangsho will legit give you a food coma when paired with a roti. Spicy, thick gravy and tender meat chunks make this dish a superb option for an indulgent but simple dinner. Koshe Kosha's Kosha Mangsho is one of our favourite joints for a dose of this.
Chicken Malabar @ Tamarind
A Malabari special curry with a good ounce of coconut and the usual suspects of curry leaves and mustard seeds, this one is best tried at Tamarind. Made in the authentic way, Tamarind's Chicken Malabar when paired with an appam or a Kerala parotta is a highway to food heaven.
Thai Green Curry @ Baan Thai
A staple from Thailand, the Thai Green Curry is another popular fave among Kolkatans. Though there are plenty Thai eateries to sample this at, the one that tops our list (though slightly expensive) is Baan Thai at The Oberoi Grand. You can of course expect fine dining at its best at this hotel, but the Kaeng Kiew Wan (aka Thai Green Curry) will seriously make you go omnomnom. Spicy and tasty, this one is available in fish, chicken, prawn, tenderloin and vegetarian options.
Gassi Curry @ Coastal Macha
Tangy, spicy and smooth, the Mangalorean Gassi Curry is a burst of astonishing flavours. A traditional dish originating in Mangalore, you can taste it best at Coastal Macha, a coastal restaurant known to curate the best of South Indian and coastal flavours.
Gatta Curry @ Bombay Brasserie
Dal Bati Churma may be the first thing that comes to your mind when it comes to Rajasthani cuisine, but a real foodie would know the gem that is Jodhpuri Gatta Curry. A desi version of gnocchi (only made with besan or dal), the gatta curry is a lip-smacking dish that you must try with rice or pulao. It's a smooth yellow gravy made with yoghurt, turmeric and besan, you can try this royal delicacy at Bombay Brasserie