Always thought that Bengal is famous only for its sweets? Well it is time to grab hold of your Bengali friend and ask him/her to cook for you some of the lesser known summer time delights of the Bengali household.
1)“ JHINGE ALOO POSTO ” (RIDGEGOURD AND POTATO IN POPPY SEEDS)
Not too uncommon, this dish can be seen in any Bengali household on a hot summer afternoon. One that can sooth any soul tired of the sultry weather. When taken with rice it is an amazing amalgamation of salt and sweet . It is not just yummy but also a healthy way to start the lunch. There is no one way to have this dish. This is often the starter and taken with daal.
2) CHINGRI POTOLER DORMA ( POINTED GOURD STUFFED WITH PRAWN COOKED IN POPPY AND MUSTARD SEEDS)
One of the more famous Bengali dishes cooked during special occasions. The potol is stuffed with prawns ,cooked in the seeds , deep fried and then mixed with spicy gravy. One of the more labour requiring dishes, but the strain is worth it. When served hot with steamed rice, don’t be surprised to taste heaven in your mouth.
3) LAL SHAK DIYE KAKRA(RED AMARANTH WITH CRAB)
A healthy bengali dish which satiates the hungry taste buds.Tossed in oil, spiced with red chilli powder and ginger-garlic paste garnished with red chilli this is a delectable dish to die for. Good news for the diet conscious, it consumes only a tablespoon of oil.
4) LAU GHONTO BORI DIYE (BOTTLEGOURD WITH FRIED LENTIL DUMPLINGS)
Another summer time dish. It literally converts a boring bottlegourd and an equally sober lentil dumpling into a mouth watering adventure. Neither too spicy nor too bland , this dish is a wonder with a hint of sweetness. As the perspiration takes a toll on you let this dish sooth your senses.
