Popular Food in Bangladesh that are a Must-Try for Foodies

As a neighbour, Bangladesh shares a lot of similarities in culture, language and even food with the Indian state of West Bengal. The country known for its unique sarees also is gaining popularity for its cuisine. If you are a foodie, you will love what Bangladesh has to offer. From seafood to rice dishes, each delicacy has its own flavors that will leave you craving for more. Continue reading to find out the popular food in Bangladesh that you must try during your trip.

1. Hilsa Fish Curry (Shorshe Ilish)

Hilsa is popular as the national fish of Bangladesh and is cherished as a delicacy. The preparation involves cooking Hilsa fish in a paste made from mustard seeds. A touch of mustard oil introduces a piquant and flavorful element. The succulent, tender fish served alongside steamed rice results in an exquisite pairing.

The dish is often available at festivals and celebrations, particularly during the Bengali New Year. Culinary enthusiasts should not overlook this genuine treasure from Bangladesh.

2. Biryani (Bangladeshi) 

Biryani occupies a significant position within Bangladeshi culinary traditions. The two primary types are Dhaka kacchi biryani and chicken biryani.

Kacchi biryani consists of marinated mutton, aromatic rice, and potatoes. The meat is cooked slowly, resulting in a tender and exquisite texture. While chicken biryani is equally rich in flavor, featuring succulent chicken prepared with fragrant spices and basmati rice.

The exquisite flavors and ideal combination of spices render this dish a culinary delight for enthusiasts. Accompanied by salad, raita, or boiled eggs, it is an essential experience for anyone visiting Bangladesh.

3. Bhuna Khichuri

Bhuna Khichuri is a comfort for thousands of people in Bangladesh. This substantial dish combines lentils, rice, and fragrant spices. The preparation involves cooking the rice and lentils simultaneously, resulting in a richly creamy consistency.

It complements fried eggplants, pickles, and even Hilsa fish fry exceptionally well. On rainy days, a serving of hot Bhuna Khichuri brings immense joy to the spirit.

4. Panta Bhat

Panta Bhat is a classic Bengali dish, particularly favored in rural regions. It consists of rice that has been soaked in water overnight and is served chilled. While the preparation is straightforward, the dish offers a refreshing experience.

Panta Bhat is often savored alongside salt, onions, green chili, and fried Hilsa fish. This dish serves as a fundamental component of the Bengali New Year celebrations, which are marked by great enthusiasm. It offers a distinctive experience for culinary enthusiasts seeking traditional fare.

5. Fuchka (Pani Puri)

Fuchka is the most popular food in Bangladesh. It is characterized by its crispy, hollow puri that is filled with a mixture of spicy mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and tamarind water. 

Vendors present it alongside refreshing, tangy water that enhances the flavor with each bite. The harmonious combination of spicy, sour, and crunchy textures creates a delightful experience for the palate. If you find yourself in Bangladesh, indulging in a plate of fuchka is essential.

6. Chingri Malai Curry

Chingri Malai Curry is a prawn preparation that features succulent prawns simmered in a luscious coconut milk sauce. This dish harmoniously blends tender prawns with a flavorful, gently spiced gravy. It is one of the best food in Bangladesh for seafood lovers. 

The coconut milk’s sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the spices. Accompanied by steamed rice, this dish presents a delightful fusion of flavors. It is among the most cherished seafood dishes in Bangladeshi homes.

7. Shingara (Samosa)

Shingara, a variant of samosa found in Bangladesh, is a widely enjoyed snack. This delicacy consists of a deep-fried pastry that is typically filled with a mixture of spiced potatoes, peas, or minced meat.

The crunchy exterior and zesty filling render it an appealing snack. Shingara is ideally paired with a cup of tea, particularly during the rainy season. Whether enjoyed on the streets or within the comfort of homes, it serves as a favored snack for various occasions.

8. Patishapta

Patishapta is a classic dessert from Bangladesh. It consists of a delicate pancake crafted from rice flour, filled with a mixture of coconut, jaggery, and condensed milk. For those with a sweet tooth, it is considered the most popular food in Bangladesh. 

The delicate texture and sugary filling render it a delight for dessert enthusiasts. Patishapta is particularly favored in the winter season and during festive occasions. It is an essential experience for those who enjoy sweet confections.

9. Mishti Doi (Sweet Yogurt)

Mishti Doi stands as one of the most renowned desserts in Bangladesh. This delightful treat consists of creamy yogurt that is sweetened with either jaggery or sugar. The fermentation process occurs in clay pots, imparting a unique flavor and texture to the yogurt. 

Mishti Doi is a delightful and indulgent treat that serves as an excellent conclusion to a spicy meal. Frequently enjoyed during festivals, weddings, and other significant events, it is a quintessential part of Bangladeshi cuisine. A trip to Bangladesh would be incomplete without experiencing this exquisite dessert.

Also Read: These Bengali Sweets are a Must-Try for the Sweet Tooths Visiting Kolkata

10. Roshogolla and Sandesh

Bengali sweets are popular globally, and Bangladesh boasts its own array of delectable treats. Roshogolla is a tender, fluffy confection crafted from chhena (paneer) and immersed in a sugar syrup.

Sandesh, in contrast, is a refined confection crafted from fresh paneer combined with sugar or jaggery. Both desserts are airy, delectable, and dissolve effortlessly in the mouth. Culinary enthusiasts are sure to appreciate the ideal sweetness that these delicacies provide.

For those traveling through flights to Bangladesh, a culinary treasure awaits. The Bangladeshi cuisine represents a harmonious fusion of tradition, culture, and taste. With a variety of savory options such as Biryani and Fuchka, alongside sweet treats like Mishti Doi and Patishapta, it offers a diverse array of flavors to satisfy every preference. 

So, why wait? Make use of iEagle deals and get ready to taste the most popular food in Bangladesh. From bustling street vendors to authentic kitchens, each meal narrates a tale of cultural heritage and flavor.