Bengali sweets, also known as “Mishti,” hold a special place in the hearts of dessert lovers. The rich heritage of Bengal is beautifully reflected in its diverse range of sweets. From iconic favorites like Rasgulla to lesser-known delights like Kheer Kadam, each sweet has its own unique flavor and charm. In this article, we present a curated list of 26 must-try sweets of Bengal, their flavors that you simply cannot miss. Let’s dive into the sweet world of Bengal and explore these delectable creations!
Bengali Sweets Names That You Must Try
1. Mishti Doi
Mishti Doi, also known as sweet yogurt, is a creamy and indulgent dessert that tantalizes the taste buds with its caramelized sugar and thickened milk. It’s a beloved sweet dish often enjoyed during festive occasions.
2. Sandesh
Sandesh is an all-time favorite Bengali sweet made from fresh cottage cheese (chenna) and sugar. Available in various flavors like kesar, pista, and narkel, Sandesh melts in your mouth and leaves you craving for more.
3. Rosogolla or Rasgullas
Rosogolla, one of the most iconic Bengali sweets, features soft, spongy cottage balls soaked in a delectable sugar syrup. This sweet delicacy is a must-try for its lightness and heavenly taste. Rosogolla is originated in Kolkata and gained worldwide fame. Made with chenna and sugar syrup, Rosogolla showcases the culinary mastery of Bengali sweet artisans.
4. Cham Cham
Cham Cham, also known as Chom Chom, is a cylindrical sweet made from paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and soaked in sugar syrup. It is often garnished with coconut flakes and pistachios, adding a delightful crunch to its soft texture.
6. Pantua
Pantua, similar to Gulab Jamun, is a deep-fried cottage cheese dumpling soaked in sugar syrup. Its rich and indulgent flavor makes it a popular choice for festive occasions and celebrations.
7. Kalo Jam
Kalo Jam, meaning “black gulab jamun,” is a decadent sweet with a dark and intense flavor. Made from khoya and dipped in sugar syrup, Kalo Jam is a treat for those who appreciate rich and sweet desserts.
8. Langcha
Langcha, hailing from the district of Shaktigarh in West Bengal, is a cylindrical sweet made from chenna and coated with sticky sugar syrup. The unique texture and taste of Langcha make it a must-have delicacy.
9. Malpua
Malpua is a sweet pancake made with flour, milk, and sugar. These fluffy pancakes are deep-fried and served with a drizzle of syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Malpua is often enjoyed during festive seasons.
10. Sondesh
Sondesh, made from freshly prepared chenna and sugar, is a melt-in-your-mouth sweet that exemplifies the artistry of Bengali sweets. It comes in various shapes, flavors, and garnishes, making it a true delight for dessert enthusiasts.
11. Patishapta
Patishapta, resembling a thin crepe, is filled with a sweet coconut or jaggery filling. It is a popular treat during winter festivals like Makar Sankranti. The delicate flavors and textures of Patishapta make it a cherished sweet in Bengali households.
12. Mihidana
Mihidana is a unique sweet made from fine rice flour and soaked in sugar syrup. These tiny, golden-hued droplets are a specialty of Burdwan, a district in West Bengal. Mihidana is often enjoyed as a standalone dessert or used as a garnish for other sweets.
13. Chanar Jilipi
Chanar Jilipi is a deep-fried sweet made from fresh chenna and soaked in sugar syrup. The twisted shape and golden color of Chanar Jilipi add to its visual appeal. This delectable sweet is a favorite among Bengali sweet lovers.
14. Jalebi
Jalebi, although not exclusive to Bengal, holds a special place in the hearts of Bengali sweet enthusiasts. These pretzel-shaped sweets are made by deep-frying flour batter and soaking them in sugar syrup. Jalebi’s crispy texture and syrupy sweetness make it a beloved dessert across India.
15. Shor Bhaja
Shor Bhaja is a delightful Bengali sweet made by frying milk cream until it turns golden and crisp. The crispy exterior and creamy interior of Shor Bhaja create a perfect contrast of textures. It is often enjoyed as a standalone sweet or paired with other Bengali desserts.
16. Khirer Chop
Khirer Chop is a unique sweet dish where rice pudding is shaped into cutlets, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried to perfection. The crispy outer layer gives way to a creamy, sweet center. Khirer Chop is a fusion of textures and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
17. Bhapa Doi
Bhapa Doi is a steamed yogurt-based dessert that originated in Bengal. It is made by mixing condensed milk, yogurt, and cardamom and then steaming the mixture until set. The result is a creamy and indulgent dessert with a hint of tanginess.
18. Kacha Golla
Kacha Golla is a simple yet delightful sweet made from chenna and sugar. These small, bite-sized sweets are soft, juicy, and bursting with flavors. Kacha Golla is a popular choice for those seeking a light and refreshing Bengali sweet.
19. Naru
Naru is a traditional Bengali sweet made from jaggery and coconut. These sweet balls are often enjoyed during festivals like Durga Puja and Diwali. The combination of jaggery and coconut creates a deliciously sweet and nutty flavor in Naru.
20. Chhanar Payesh
Chhanar Payesh is a creamy and aromatic dessert made from chenna, milk, and sugar. It is often flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts. Chhanar Payesh is a popular choice for festive occasions and celebrations.
21. Mohan Bhog
Mohan Bhog is a fragrant and luscious sweet made from semolina, ghee, and sugar. It is often garnished with saffron strands and chopped nuts. Mohan Bhog is a favorite during festivals and auspicious occasions.
22. Nolen Gurer Sandesh
Nolen Gurer Sandesh is a specialty sweet made with date palm jaggery, known as Nolen Gur. It has a distinct caramel-like flavor that adds a unique touch to the sweet. Nolen Gurer Sandesh is a seasonal delight enjoyed during winter months in Bengal.
23. Rajbhog
Rajbhog is a larger and richer version of the classic Rasgulla. These jumbo-sized cottage cheese balls are stuffed with a mixture of dry fruits and flavored with saffron and cardamom. Rajbhog is a regal sweet that embodies the opulence and grandeur of Bengali cuisine.
24. Rasmalai
Rasmalai is a rich and creamy dessert made with cottage cheese dumplings soaked in sweetened milk flavored with cardamom and saffron. This royal sweet is a favorite in Bengali households and is often served during weddings and special gatherings.
25. Kheer Kadam
Kheer Kadam is a unique Bengali sweet that combines the flavors of sweetened condensed milk and jaggery. It consists of an outer layer made from khoya (reduced milk solids) and an inner core made from a concentrated mix of jaggery and khoya. The combination of these flavors creates a heavenly experience for your taste buds.
These additional sweets add more variety and flavor to the list, giving readers a wider selection of delectable Bengali sweets to try.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: What are some famous Bengali sweets?
A: Some famous Bengali sweets include Rasgulla, Sandesh, Mishti Doi, Cham Cham, and Rosogolla. These sweets are renowned for their unique flavors and textures.
Q: What are Bengali sweets?
A: Bengali sweets are a diverse range of desserts originating from the Indian state of West Bengal. They are known for their rich flavors, unique textures, and artistic presentation.
Q: Which is the most famous Bengali sweet?
A: Rasgulla is the most famous Bengali sweet globally. These spongy cottage cheese balls soaked in sugar syrup are a symbol of Bengali culinary excellence.
Q: Where can I find Bengali sweets outside of Bengal?
A: Bengali sweets have gained popularity worldwide, and you can find them in Indian sweet shops, specialty stores, and online platforms that offer regional delicacies.
Q: Are Bengali sweets only vegetarian?
A: Yes, the majority of Bengali sweets are vegetarian as they are made with milk and milk products. However, some sweets may contain ghee (clarified butter) or other dairy ingredients.
Q: What makes Bengali sweets unique?
A: Bengali sweets are unique due to their use of chenna (cottage cheese), Nolen Gur (date palm jaggery), and regional flavor profiles like saffron, cardamom, and coconut.
Q: Can Bengali sweets be enjoyed year-round?
A: Yes, Bengali sweets can be enjoyed year-round. However, some sweets like Nolen Gurer Sandesh are seasonal and available during specific months.
Conclusion
Embark on a sweet journey through Bengal with these 30 delectable Bengali sweets. Each sweet represents the region’s rich culinary heritage and offers a symphony of flavors and textures. Whether you are a dessert enthusiast or someone looking to explore a new culinary tradition, these sweets are a must-try. Indulge in the sweetness of Bengal and savor the delights that have enchanted generations. Treat yourself to the magic of Bengali sweets and create lasting memories of culinary bliss
