Randhan Padabali

Author: Alpana Ghosh (আলপনা ঘোষ)

Genre: Rannar Boi (রান্নার বই)

Cover: Hardcover

ISBN: 9789354256080

Pages: 256

Weight: 391 gram

Description

"Randhan Padabali" is an extraordinary exploration of the deep connection between cooking and culture. In this insightful book, Alpana Ghosh uncovers the history behind every dish we cherish in Bengali kitchens, from simple rice and dal to exotic recipes that have become part of our daily meals. The book not only provides recipes but also presents an engaging narrative about the social, cultural, and historical significance of these dishes.

This work traces the evolution of Bengali cuisine, capturing how various influences, from foreign to traditional, have shaped the food that defines us today. The book also reflects on the roles of men and women in this process, revealing how food creation has been a constant part of our lives. Through short essays, Alpana Ghosh delves into the untold stories behind common meals, shedding light on their hidden histories.

Not just a cookbook, but a history of food, this book will captivate anyone interested in the intertwined narrative of Bengali culture, society, and cooking.

Key Features

✅ Explores the History of Bengali Cuisine – Understand the cultural, societal, and historical context of each dish.
✅ Discover Foreign Influences – Learn how foreign dishes became integrated into Bengali kitchens and our everyday meals.
✅ Intriguing Essays – Each recipe is paired with a thought-provoking essay, providing context and history.
✅ Cookbook & Cultural Study – A unique blend of recipes and cultural study, ideal for food lovers and culture enthusiasts.

Noteworthy Sections

🔸 Evolution of Bengali Dishes – How common Bengali dishes evolved and acquired new forms over time.
🔸 Integration of Foreign Foods – The journey of foreign dishes finding their place in Bengali cuisine.
🔸 Life Behind the Kitchen – The profound relationship between cooking and daily life in Bengali families.
🔸 Cultural Anecdotes – Hidden stories behind every meal that connect us to our roots.

About the Author

Alpana Ghosh was born in 1945 in Kolkata. She is a graduate of Calcutta University and began her career as a journalist with Kalantar magazine. In 1970, she married renowned journalist Shankar Ghosh. Throughout her life, she has been passionate about writing, teaching, and experimenting with cooking. Alpana Ghosh's love for cooking began after her marriage, learning from her mother and grandmother, and has continued as she explored new culinary experiments.

Why You Should Read This Book

"Randhan Padabali" is more than just a cookbook; it’s a journey through Bengali culture and its evolution, seen through the lens of food. Alpana Ghosh not only teaches you how to cook but also helps you understand the significance of what we cook and eat in the context of Bengali life. Perfect for anyone who loves to cook, is passionate about culture, or is simply curious about the history of food.