Thinking of Bengali cuisine, the first thing that comes to our mind is maachh-bhaat. However, Bengali cuisine is really versatile, and contradictory to popular belief, Bengali cuisine has a lot more than just fish and rice or non-vegetarian recipes. Believe it or not, vegetarian recipes are just as much a part of any Bengali household just as much the fish is. And today, we have decided to bring to you a list of easy and delicious Bengali-style vegetarian dishes that give a tough competition to their counterparts. So, without any further delay, let’s dive into those yummy recipes.
Bengali cuisine is all about zero-waste cooking, so let’s begin the list with a unique Bengali vegetarian starter made from mocha or the banana flower. Often served as a dish during fasting, Mochar Chop is a wonderful vegetarian version of the chop. Banana flowers add a special taste to any recipe, so, if you wish, you can also convert mocha into yummy Mochar Ghonto.
Second recipe on the list is one of the most uncomplicated Bengali vegetarian recipes - Aloo Potol Posto. This traditional soul-satisfying recipe is very easy and gets ready within no time, making it the perfect option for weekdays. All you need for this recipe is some kitchen staples like potatoes and Posto, a smooth paste made using soaked poppy seeds, along with green chilies, and a few spices from your masala box. This nutty, creamy dish competes well with most of the complex meat dishes.
Then comes an easy-peasy must-try dish of the Bengali cuisine made using pantry essential aloo - Alur Dom. Here Aloor means Potato and Dom means curry. Alur Dom is quite similar to the usual north Indian dum aloo, but the touch of Bengal makes it extra unique and special. Alur Dom tastes delicious when served along with fluffy Luchis or even basanti pulao.
Next up is a curry that has a strong backing of tradition and culture tied to it - Shukto! Bengali meals often start with the bitters, and what better than this unique Shukto which evokes a sense of comfort and nostalgia. The bitter-sweet flavors combined with a medley of vegetables, poppy seeds and mustard with a delicious gravy, is as complex and tasty, making it a must-try vegetarian recipe from the Bengali cuisine.
Lastly we have a simple yet elegant Bengali-style chana dal (split Bengal gram) that’s rich, thick, and subtly sweet - Chholar Dal. This dal is infused with the aromatic flavors of bay leaves, cumin, ginger, and a hint of ghee. Simply put, Chholar Dal and Luchi is a staple combo of the Bengali cuisine that must not be missed in any case.
All in all, we hope you try these delicious vegetarian meals and honor the Bengali cuisine yet again.
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