Food Trail: Explore Kolkata's Zakaria Street For The Most Indulgent Iftar Treat

Bengal and its love for food is not unknown to the world. From the popular Indo-Chinese cuisine to the royal Sheherwali food culture - we find an extensive range of cuisines that left a strong impression on our mind and palate. In fact, each of these cuisines carry along a rich history and heritage that speak about different sects of people who settled in Bengal over generations and how they influenced the palate of Bengal. One such popular cuisine that helps define the food culture of Bengal is Mughlai. The Mughlai cuisine developed in the royal kitchens of the Mughal Empire - that started from the rule of Babar (who initiated the Mughal Empire in India in the 16th century). Then over the years, the cuisine travelled to different states and found its unique adaptations as per the region's palate. In Bengal, it saw aloo in biryani, kebabs in Mughlai paratha (popularly known as chicken roll) and more. And to relish the Mughal cuisine in Bengal, we suggest explore the bylanes of Kolkata's Zakaria Street.

_{Photo Credit: NDTV Food}

Situated just beside the historical Nakhoda Masjid of Kolkata, this place possibly offers the best street foods of the states. And the experience gets yet more special during the Holy month of Ramadan. 

A typical day during Ramadan starts with Sehri and ends with evening prayer, followed by Iftar. And Zakaria Street during this time brightens up as people after their evening prayer in Nakhoda Masjid, hits the lanes to break the fast. That's not all. People from all over city and across religious beliefs unite during this time of the year to enjoy kebabs, biryanis, haleem and more. It won't be an exaggeration to say that such a scenario re-affirms the spirit of Kolkata.

Considering this, we bring you five of our favourite foods one must try while exploring Zakaria street- Kolkata's biggest Ramzan market - during Ramadan. Let's take a look.

Ramadan 2022: Here're 5 Things You Must Try At Zakaria Street, Kolkata:

1. Kebabs:

The very idea of Mughlai cuisine instantly reminds us of the juicy, delectable kebabs. You will find different unique types of kebabs across the area that melts in mouth in no time. We suggest, try the kebabs at more than 100-year-old food joint Dilshad and begin your indulgent tour with it.

_{Photo Credit: NDTV Food}

2. Haleem:

Also referred to as dal gosht, it is a delicious, nutrient-rich and wholesome food made with meat, barley, lentils and more. It is generally served with tandoori roti or roomali roti. Try haleem at Sufia restaurant at Zakaria street.

_{Photo Credit: NDTV Food}

3. Chicken Changezi:

You have had chicken changezi in the Northern part of India; right? Now we suggest, try it at Zakaria street. As you enter Zakaria street, one of the first restaurants you will find is Dilli 6. Besides chicken changezi, you can also have fried chicken, fried fish and phirni.

_{Photo Credit: NDTV Food}

4. Halwa-Paratha:

For this, you literally do not need to get anywhere. Just take a stroll down the lane and try the greasy halwa and paratha available at the street carts. The combination of the flaky, thin paratha and halwa spell indulgence.

_{Photo Credit: NDTV Food}

5. Sewai:

And finally, do not forget to get some laccha sewai on your way back home. Prepare kheer, doodh sewai and kimami sewai with this yummy delicacy. Do give it a try.