As it is a state along the coast, the people in Bengal have easy access to the sea and fishing. Seafood and various types of fish, especially carp are popular foods in Bengal. Most Bengalis do not eat meats like chicken or lamb curries, but they prefer fish. Carp served with rice, various spices and chillies is a typical meal eaten. Bengalis enjoy their vegetables-red pumpkin, cauliflowers, spinach , potatoes and white radishes are often enjoyed with the meal or as the main meal itself.
Vegetable curry is a popular lunchtime dish in West Bengali.
People in Bengal also like sweet dishes. Milk mixed with puffed rice, mango slices and bananas make for a sweet treat in Bengal and many other places throughout northern and western India. Add the chilli powder, ginger, salt and coriander, mix and fry for 2 minutes. Then add to the pan the eggplant, peas and potato and cook for 5 minutes, stirring sometimes. Add the chillies and the tomatoes with their juice, cover and allow to simmer for 30 minute or when peas are soft and sauce thickens.