Cooking

IIE DIGITAL DESK : The proud moment for Indian cuisine, West Bengal’s iconic Chingri Malai Curry has been ranked among the world’s top 10 prawn dishes by the global food guide TasteAtlas. Known for its rich, creamy texture and fragrant blend of spices, this Bengali delicacy has long been a favorite across Indian households, and now it has earned well-deserved global recognition.

TasteAtlas, which curates and reviews traditional dishes from across the world, recently released its list of the "10 Best Rated Prawn Dishes in the World," placing Chingri Malai Curry at an impressive 7th position. The ranking is based on public votes, expert food reviews, and overall popularity across different regions.

Chingri Malai Curry, often prepared with succulent prawns or jumbo tiger shrimp simmered in a luscious coconut milk gravy, is a staple in Bengali celebrations and festive occasions. Infused with aromatic spices such as garam masala, cardamom, cinnamon, and turmeric, the dish is usually served with steaming basmati rice, making it a comforting and indulgent meal.

Originating from the coastal regions of Bengal, the dish reflects a beautiful fusion of local ingredients and historical influences. Some believe the use of coconut milk hints at a Southeast Asian or possibly even Mughal touch, brought into Bengal through trade routes centuries ago. Over time, Bengali cooks refined the recipe to create a dish that is uniquely regional, yet universally appealing.

Reacting to the recognition, Kolkata-based celebrity chef Sushanta Sengupta said, “Chingri Malai Curry is not just a dish; it is nostalgia on a plate. Every Bengali has memories attached to this curry, especially during festivals like Durga Puja. Its global recognition is a win for Indian regional cuisine and shows the world that our flavors can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best.”

The international praise has led to a spike in interest across Indian restaurants abroad. Several eateries in London, New York, and Sydney are now promoting Chingri Malai Curry on their menus, tapping into the global appetite for authentic regional Indian dishes.

Social media users and food lovers, especially from Bengal, expressed their excitement over the announcement. Many shared their home-cooked versions of the curry, praising its simplicity and depth of flavor. “It’s our comfort food and a cultural gem,” one user wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Apart from Chingri Malai Curry, the TasteAtlas list also featured other popular prawn dishes like Spain’s Gambas al Ajillo, Thailand’s Goong Pad Nam Prik Pao, and Japan’s Ebi Tempura, reflecting the global love for seafood delicacies.

As Indian food continues to gain international fame, regional dishes like Chingri Malai Curry are playing a key role in showcasing the diversity and richness of Indian culinary traditions. This latest accolade is not just a celebration of a dish, but of a culture that has long cherished its vibrant food heritage.

For now, Bengal can take a bow, and the rest of the world can enjoy a spoonful of this creamy, spicy delight.