Discover the Best Street Food in Kolkata: Iconic Fish Snacks

Kolkata, celebrated for its vibrant culture and bustling streets, offers an unparalleled street food experience. The city’s street food scene pulsates with flavors, and fish snacks prominently feature in this culinary landscape. These snacks are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a testament to Kolkata’s rich culinary heritage and traditions. Let’s dive into the world of Kolkata’s iconic fish street food and explore the unique techniques that make these snacks stand out.

Exploring Kolkata’s Flavorful Fish Street Food

1. Fish Fry: A Crispy Favorite :

The Fish Fry stands out as a quintessential Kolkata street food, with Bhetki and Ilish fish taking center stage. Vendors coat fresh Bhetki fish with a spiced breadcrumb mixture and shallow-fry it to achieve crispy perfection. Similarly, Ilish fish, known for its rich flavor, is also prepared using this method, offering a delightful contrast between the crunchy exterior and the tender fish inside. Additionally, the technique known as “chhonka,” which involves tempering mustard oil with spices, infuses both Bhetki and Ilish with a distinct flavor and aroma, further enhancing their appeal.

2. Fish Cutlet: Spicy and Savory :

Moving on, the Fish Cutlet is another beloved street food staple, with Bhetki Cutlets and Prawn Cutlets being popular variations. Vendors prepare the Bhetki Cutlet by mixing minced Bhetki fish with spices and potatoes, shaping the mixture into patties, and then coating them in breadcrumbs before deep-frying. Similarly, the Prawn Cutlet is made by finely chopping prawns, blending them with spices, and following the same preparation process. The result in both cases is a crispy exterior with a flavorful and spicy filling. These savory bites offer a satisfying crunch and a kick of spices that many find irresistible.

3. Fish Roll: A Flavorful Wrap :

Next, the Fish Roll combines a spiced fish fillet with a paratha (Indian flatbread). Popular variations include the Bhetki Roll and Prawn Roll. The preparation involves marinating and frying either a Bhetki fish fillet or succulent prawns, then wrapping them in a paratha along with onions, green chilies, and tangy sauce. These convenient and tasty rolls deliver a blend of textures and flavors in every bite, making them a popular choice for those on the go.

4. Prawn Pakora: A Crispy Treat :

Prawn Pakora highlights Kolkata’s culinary creativity with seafood. Vendors dip prawns in a seasoned chickpea flour batter and deep-fry them until crispy. They serve these pakoras with chutneys like mint or tamarind, which add extra layers of flavor to the crunchy snack. This dish showcases the versatility of Bengali cuisine and its ability to adapt traditional methods to new ingredients.

Traditional Techniques and Cultural Impact of Kolkata’s Street Food

Kolkata’s fish street food is deeply rooted in tradition. Techniques such as marinating fish with local spices and frying it to perfection have been passed down through generations. The use of mustard oil and specific spices reflects the region’s culinary practices, ensuring that every bite bursts with authentic flavor. Moreover, these traditional methods connect the present with Kolkata’s rich culinary heritage.

Benfarmm Pvt Ltd. : Freshness at Your Doorstep

To enjoy these iconic fish snacks at home, you need the freshest ingredients. Benfarmm Pvt Ltd., proudly partnered with LawCrust Global Consulting Ltd., delivers fresh and premium fish directly from farms. They focus on quality, ensuring that every product arrives fresh and ready for cooking. As a leading meat provider in Kolkata, Benfarmm offers farm-fresh fish and meat at the lowest prices, delivered right to your doorstep.

For an authentic taste of Kolkata’s street food, choose Benfarmm for top-quality ingredients. Contact them at +91 9674111005 or email info@benfarmm.com.