Food In Sundarbans

Food History of Sundarbans, West Bengal, India

The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site in West Bengal, India, is not only known for its rich biodiversity but also for its unique culinary heritage. The cuisine here has been shaped by the diverse flora and fauna of the mangrove forests, the numerous rivers criss-crossing the region, and the cultural influences of both Hindu and Muslim communities. The deltaic region's diet primarily revolves around rice and fish due to the abundance of both. Spices and pastes made from local herbs and seeds are essential elements in their cooking, offering distinctive flavors to their dishes. The use of mustard oil is also significant here, which imparts a unique pungency to recipes.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in the Sundarbans

For anyone visiting Sundarbans, here are the top dishes that you must try:

1. Bhapa Ilish (Steamed Hilsa) - Non Veg: An iconic Bengali fish delicacy, prepared by steaming Hilsa fish marinated with mustard paste, yogurt, and green chillies.
2. Chingri Macher Malaikari (Prawn Malai Curry) - Non Veg: A rich and creamy curry made with prawns and coconut milk, subtly spiced and a gastronomic delight.
3. Daab Chingri (Prawns in Tender Coconut) - Non Veg: Prawns cooked in a spicy mustard and coconut sauce inside a tender coconut shell.
4. Macher Jhol (Fish Curry) - Non Veg: A staple fish curry with seasonal vegetables, turmeric, and green chillies, representing everyday Bengali meals.
5. Kosha Mangsho (Mutton Curry) - Non Veg: A spicy Bengali mutton curry cooked with potatoes and a melange of spices until it gets a dark caramelized texture.
6. Aloo Posto (Potato with Poppy Seeds) - Veg: A vegetarian delight where potatoes are cooked in a poppy seed paste with green chillies and mustard oil.
7. Mochar Ghonto (Banana Flower Curry) - Veg: A traditional Bengali curry made using banana flowers, cooked with coconut and potatoes.
8. Shorshe Bhindi (Okra in Mustard Sauce) - Veg: Okra cooked in a pungent and spicy mustard sauce, a simple yet flavorsome side dish.
9. Begun Bhaja (Fried Eggplant) - Veg: Slices of eggplant are seasoned with spices and fried till crispy; an easy and popular Bengali snack.
10. Patishapta (Sweet Crepes) - Veg: A dessert made during harvest festival Makar Sankranti, these are thin crepes with a filling of coconut and jaggery.

Top Famous Restaurants in Sundarbans, West Bengal

Below are some renowned restaurants where you can try the local cuisine:

• Bonnie Camp Restaurant - Address: Sundarban National Park
  Famous Food: Wild honey glazed grilled fish (Non Veg)
• Sundarbans Jungle Camp - Bali Island - Address: Bali, Sundarbans
  Famous Food: Crab Curry (Non Veg)
• Sajnekhali Tourist Lodge - Address: Sajnekhali, Sundarbans
  Famous Food: Traditional Bengali Thali with a variety of dishes both Veg and Non Veg
• Tiger Camp - Address: Dayapur, Sundarban
  Famous Food: Bhapa Ilish (Non Veg)
• Sundarban Gateway Resort - Address: Jamespur, Ryang Island, Sundarbans
  Famous Food: Fried Fish (Non Veg) and Mixed Vegetable Curry (Veg)

The Sundarbans offer a scrumptious variety of flavors to its visitors and an authentic taste of traditional Bengali cuisine, whether you are a vegetarian or a seafood enthusiast.