Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is renowned not just for its rich history and architecture, but also for its delectable culinary offerings, especially sweets. Known as the sweet capital of India, Kolkata boasts a variety of traditional desserts that are deeply rooted in the city’s heritage and are a true delight for any food lover. Here’s a guide to the top 10 Kolkata famous sweets that you must try when visiting the city.
1. Rasgulla
Starting with the iconic Rasgulla, or Rosogolla as locally known, this sweet is a soft, spongy ball made of Indian cottage cheese (chhena) soaked in a light sugar syrup. Its origins are often debated but are popularly attributed to Kolkata’s own Nobin Chandra Das in the late 19th century. The texture and sweetness make it a perfect introduction to Kolkata’s sweet treats.
2. Sandesh
Sandesh is another quintessential Bengali sweet, made from moist chhena and sugar, often flavored with cardamom or saffron for an aromatic touch. Varieties of Sandesh include the jadu sandesh, nolen gurer sandesh (made with date palm jaggery), and kheer kadam, each offering a unique taste and texture.
3. Mishti Doi
Mishti Doi differs from regular yogurt due to its sweet taste. This fermented sweet yogurt is traditionally prepared by boiling milk until it thickens, sweetening it with jaggery, and allowing it to ferment in earthen pots. The result is a rich and creamy dessert with a slight tang, served chilled.
4. Chomchom
Originating from the town of Porabari in the late 19th century, Chomchom is a denser, elongated version of the rasgulla, coated with coconut flakes. Its texture is more compact, and it is typically brownish in color due to being cooked in sugar syrup for a longer time, which caramelizes the sugar.
5. Pantua
Similar to the North Indian gulab jamun, Pantua is made from deep-fried balls of chhena, khoya (dried whole milk), and flour that are then soaked in a sugar syrup. Pantua is unique for its slightly grainy texture and rich, milky flavor.
6. Rajbhog
Rajbhog is essentially a larger version of rasgulla, stuffed with a mixture of dry fruits and sometimes a hint of saffron for an extra layer of flavor. It’s more indulgent and is a popular choice during festive occasions.
7. Kalo Jam
Kalo Jam, another variation of gulab jamun, is made with paneer or chhena that’s kneaded with khoya and then deep-fried until it turns a dark brown, almost black color—hence the name ‘Kalo’ (black). It’s then soaked in a sugar syrup, sometimes flavored with rose water.
8. Shondesh Patisapta
Patisapta brings a unique twist to the traditional Sandesh with its crepe-like appearance. It’s essentially a thin roll of rice flour filled with coconut, khoya, and jaggery, resembling a sweet version of a spring roll. It’s a special treat commonly enjoyed during the Poush Sankranti festival.
9. Langcha
Langcha is a sweet from Shaktigarh, but it has become a favorite in Kolkata as well. These are elongated, dark brown fried sweets made of chhena and semolina, soaked in sugar syrup. They are similar to Pantua but longer in shape.
10. Jolbhora Sandesh
Jolbhora Sandesh or ‘filled Sandesh’ is a delight for those who love surprises. This sweet is filled with liquid date palm jaggery, encased in a shell of soft chhena, offering a burst of flavor with every bite.
Conclusion
Kolkata’s sweets offer a palette of flavors that range from milky and creamy to tangy and nutty. Each sweet narrates a part of Kolkata’s history, culture, and culinary expertise. Trying these sweets is not just about indulgence but also about experiencing the essence of Kolkata. Whether you are strolling through the bustling streets of Burra Bazar or visiting a quaint shop in the quieter parts of the city, these sweets are sure to add a sweet note to your travels. Don’t miss out on these Kolkata famous sweets; they promise to leave you with memorable tastes and stories to take back home.
