Bihari cuisine is a very underrated section of Indian cuisine that belongs to the Eastern state of India, Bihar. The region is primarily agriculture-based, and the lifestyle is heavily affected by it. Thus, upon visiting the state, one can truly immerse in the simple yet robust flavours and cooking techniques that highlight the local ingredients produced in the local farms. Bihari dishes have always been neglected among the various other regional dishes, but recently, there has been a subtle rise in the exploration of this cuisine, too.
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The essence of Bihari cuisine lies in its ability to transform humble ingredients into mouth-watering delicacies. Despite being lesser-known on the global stage, Bihari cuisine offers an array of dishes that are both delicious and nutritious, appealing to vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Chicken Bihari Boti
The dish features marinated chicken chunks infused with yoghurt, ginger-garlic paste, mustard oil, and a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The chicken is typically grilled to perfection, resulting in tender, juicy pieces with a smoky, rich flavour. The marinade imparts a robust and spicy profile, making it a favourite in Bihari cuisine. Chickens bihari bori is often enjoyed with naan or paratha, enhancing its delightful culinary experience.
Bihari Kebab
Made with succulent pieces of mutton or beef, the kebabs are marinated in a blend of yoghurt, mustard oil, garlic, ginger, and an array of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The marination process infuses the meat with rich flavours, making it tender and juicy. Cooked traditionally on skewers over a charcoal grill, Bihari Kebabs boast a smoky, spicy flavour that is both robust and mouth-watering, making them a popular choice among meat lovers.
Champaran Mutton
Champaran Mutton is a renowned Bihari dish known for its rich, aromatic flavours. This hearty curry features tender mutton slow-cooked with a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, black pepper, and a generous dose of garlic and ginger. Tomatoes, onions, and yoghurt add depth and creaminess, while green chillies infuse a subtle heat. The dish is often garnished with fresh cilantro and served with rice or chapati.
Potiya Machhli
Potiya Machhli, a flavourful non-vegetarian Bihari dish, features tender fish cooked in a rich, spicy sauce. The main ingredients include fish, often rohu or catla, alongside aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chilli powder. Tomatoes and onions provide a tangy depth, while garlic and ginger add warmth. This dish is characterised by its balanced blend of spices, resulting in a savoury and slightly tangy flavour profile.
Bihari-style Chicken
Key ingredients of the Bihari-style chicken include chicken, mustard oil, onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chilli powder. Often enhanced with yoghurt and fresh cilantro, the dish features a robust flavour profile with a balance of heat and tanginess. It's typically slow-cooked to allow the spices to fully penetrate the chicken, resulting in a tender and savoury dish that reflects the rich culinary heritage of Bihar.