Dishes originating from the Bengal region that exclude meat, fish, and eggs, and provide culinary options catering to vegetarian dietary preferences. These preparations often feature locally sourced vegetables, lentils, dairy products, and spices, resulting in a diverse and flavorful array of meal choices. A common example includes Shukto, a vegetable stew with bitter and sweet notes.
The significance of such culinary options lies in their accommodation of cultural and religious traditions that promote vegetarianism, along with their potential health benefits due to the high nutrient content of the included ingredients. Historically, vegetarianism has deep roots in the Bengal region, influenced by religious movements and philosophical beliefs, contributing to the development of unique cooking styles and ingredient combinations.