Kolkata's Ramzan Sweet Trail: A Journey Beyond Savory Iftar
Ramzan in Kolkata is widely celebrated for its vibrant food trails and indulgent iftar spreads, but there exists another equally captivating dimension to this holy month. Beyond the savory favorites lies a rich world of comforting festive sweets, waiting to be discovered by food enthusiasts. This season offers a unique opportunity to embark on a sweet trail through the city, exploring treats that elevate the celebrations to new heights of culinary delight.
The Ramzan Classic: Laccha Doodh
A staple during Ramzan, laccha doodh is a thick, slow-reduced milk drink layered with delicate strands of malai, assorted nuts, and a gentle sweetness. Traditionally enjoyed during sehri or suhoor, the pre-dawn meal before the day's fast begins, it is both nourishing and easy on the stomach. Across Kolkata, large utensils of milk simmer through the night, gradually thickening into this creamy delicacy by early morning.
Abhijit Sharma, a regular at Pure Milk Centre, shares insights: "Some of the most loved packaged versions come from Karodia Sweets and Royal Sweets, while doodh laccha plates are best enjoyed at stalls near Nakhoda Mosque, The Pure Milk Centre, and Ripon Street during sehri."
Embark on a Halwa Trail
Ramzan evenings are incomplete without fresh halwa, and Kolkata offers a diverse array of this beloved sweet. Here are some must-try varieties:
- Anjeer Halwa at Royal Sweets: Made with figs, ghee, and nuts, this halwa is found at stalls across Zakaria Street.
- Aflatoon at Royal Sweets: A caramelized sweet featuring khoa, dry fruits, and ghee, it is a highly sought-after indulgence.
- Battisi Halwa at Haji Alauddin Sweets: Known for its soft texture and generous nuts, it has developed a cult following during Ramzan.
- Imarti at Haji Alauddin Sweets: Available exclusively during this time of the month, adding to its seasonal appeal.
- Halwa Paratha at Zakaria Street: A comforting pairing of warm halwa and flaky paratha, deeply loved by locals.
Sweet Treats on Zakaria Street
During Ramzan, Zakaria Street transforms into a bustling late-night dessert hub, offering an array of exclusive treats. Must-try items include:
- Mohabbat ka sharbat (₹40–₹60)
- Shahi tukda (₹80–₹120)
- Phirni (₹50–₹70)
- Shahi roll (₹120–₹150)
- Halwa paratha (₹80–₹100)
Saif Ahmed, a regular at Zakaria, emphasizes: "When here, one mustn’t miss out on mohabbat ka sharbat and Nafrat ka sherbet."
Expert Perspectives on the Sweet Culture
Ammar Hamid, a food walk curator, notes: "Must-try treats, sold only during this time of the year, include Phirni, Shahi tukda, Shahi roll, Sheermal, and Halwas. The best time to visit is late evening or closer to sehri, when fresh batches are prepared."
Zeeshan Ali Zame, a vlogger, adds: "Ramzan in Kolkata has a distinct food culture, and the sweets alone make a visit to Zakaria worthwhile."
This sweet trail not only highlights the culinary diversity of Kolkata's Ramzan but also underscores the city's unique festive traditions. From the creamy laccha doodh to the varied halwas and exclusive street desserts, these sweets offer a delightful complement to the iftar experience, making the celebrations even more special and memorable.
