Embracing the Tastes of Home: Dishes Missed the Most Abroad
I've been living in Toronto for more than six years now, and although I've visited India multiple times, only my in-laws' stay in Kolkata has left an indelible impression on my taste buds. My journey through the diverse culinary landscape of India, having grown up in places like Bihar, Jharkhand, Pune, and Delhi, has made me appreciate every cuisine even more. However, when I step outside these borders, the opportunity to savor these unique flavors is gone, and some dishes are especially missed.
Exploring the Flavors of Home
From the crispy Pani Puri with its tangy and refreshing taste to the egg rolls that carry such cultural significance, these dishes hold a special place in my heart. Here, I recount the stories behind these cherished flavors and share why they are so dear to me.
Pani Puri
The taste of Pani Puri that I savored outside South City Mall in Kolkata remains etched in my tongue. It’s a unique experience – the way the pani puri is crafted here is indeed much different from what I have tasted in places like Bihar or Delhi. The burst of flavors— crisp churpi, tangy tamarind water, and the bursts of pepper—create an unforgettable experience. Every time I crave something savory and fresh, I am reminded of the delightful Pani Puri of Kolkata.
Egg Rolls
During my time at my in-laws' place in Kolkata, I was enthralled by the art of making egg rolls. Initially, I was taken aback by my husband’s preference for buying from a local vendor, but after he made them for me, I understood why. The authentic taste of the egg rolls was unmatched. No matter what I tried at home, it never compared to the real deal. The combination of crispy exterior and a soft interior packed with flavor—this is what made the egg rolls so special. The egg rolls made by my husband were nothing short of exquisite.
Litti Chokha
No list can be complete without mentioning Litti Chokha. This humble yet flavorful dish holds a special place in my heart. Litti, when prepared with a slow flame and enjoyed with friends, is an unforgettable experience. However, it’s not just the taste that makes Litti special. It’s the memories and conversations that envelop each bite. I recall the days when we combined Litti with chicken and mutton. It was a tradition, and the flavors only seemed to enhance each other. While you can find Litti in many places in India, the authentic taste from Bihar remains unparalleled.
Anarsa and Tilkut
The aroma of Anarsa and Tilkut from Gaya City is one of the most cherished memories I have. Gaya is my paternal grandfather’s hometown, and the sweet, crystalline taste of these traditional Bengali sweets never fails to transport me back. The scent of these sweets filled the air as soon as we reached the railway station, and no matter where else I have tasted Anarsa, I can never replicate the exact taste. If my family still makes it in Gaya, I hope to sample it again.
Sarso Ka Saag and Makki Ki Roti
The experience of trying Sarso Ka Saag and Makki Ki Roti in Gurgaon was a culinary delight. Though I can’t recall the exact place, the combination of the warm, savory saag and the nutritious roti was a feast for the taste buds. I look forward to revisiting this unique taste on my next trip to India.
Mishti Doi, a sweet yogurt that my husband insists I try, is the next item on my list. It’s a part of Bengali sweet culture, and I hope to savor it soon. For now, these Bengali sweets and the promise of Mishti Doi remain my cravings.
Source Image: Google