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Sambalpur is a vibrant city in the western part of Odisha. The city is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and unique culinary traditions. Foodies find the area of interest because of its tribal roots and natural abundance, which greatly shapes its cuisine. Known for its simplicity and emphasis on the inherent tastes of the ingredients, Sambalpui food Local cuisine consists mostly of rice, which is complemented by lentils, vegetables, and leafy greens. Using locally grown herbs and spices gives the food a unique taste and lessens its oil content while yet adding some spice.
Video Credit: YouTube | KPD FOOD VLOG
Eating Sambalpur's food is an amazing trip that ties one to the customs and culture of the area. Sambalpur's streets present a wide range of cuisine that reflects the energetic way of life of the city rather than only food. Whether it's the aroma of Panch Phutana wafting through the air or the unique taste imparted by cooking in sal leaves, the food here provides a sensory experience that is truly captivating.
Must-Try Foods In Sambalpur
Pakhala Bhat
Pakhala Bhat is a quintessential dish of Odisha, and in Sambalpur, it is served with a distinctive local twist. This dish consists of cooked rice that is washed or fermented in water, often with the addition of cucumber, cumin seeds, fried onions, mint leaves, and curd. The liquid, known as Torani, is often savored separately. In Sambalpur, Panch Phutana—a blend of five spices including fenugreek, cumin, mustard, and more—is added, giving it a unique flavour. The dish is typically accompanied by roasted vegetables like brinjal, potato, and saga, or with fried fish. Pakhala Bhat is also believed to help prevent heat strokes, making it a must-try for visitors.
Alu Baingan Jhol
Alu Baingan Jhol is a beloved dish across Odisha, but the Sambalpuri version brings something special to the table. This simple yet flavourful curry made from potatoes and brinjal is cooked with traditional spices and often prepared in earthen cookware, which enhances its rich, earthy taste. It’s usually served with boiled rice or Pakhala Bhat. The blend of spices used in Sambalpur gives this dish a unique aroma and flavour, making it an essential part of the local culinary experience.
Panasa Tarkari
Panasa Tarkari, a curry made from unripe jackfruit, is a staple in Sambalpuri kitchens. The jackfruit is cooked with onions and potatoes to create a hearty and flavourful curry. In Sambalpur, this dish is often served hot with Pakhala Bhat or boiled rice, though it can also be enjoyed with rotis. The texture of the jackfruit combined with the blend of spices makes Panasa Tarkari a delightful dish that showcases the best of Sambalpuri cooking.
Aamisa Jhol
Aamisa Jhol is a must-try for non-vegetarian food lovers visiting Sambalpur. This dish is a chicken curry cooked with an assortment of spices that create a rich, brown gravy. It draws comparisons to Macher Jhol, a fish curry popular in other parts of eastern India. However, the addition of Panch Phutana in Sambalpur gives Aamisa Jhol its own unique flavour. This curry is typically served with rice or rotis and is a staple in many local households.
Jhuri Bhaja
Jhuri Bhaja is a signature fish curry that non-vegetarian enthusiasts should not miss while in Sambalpur. This dish features a unique preparation where the tails of the fish are cut before cooking. The curry is known for its health benefits, particularly for the gall bladder and intestines, as well as its tantalising taste. Jhuri Bhaja is typically served hot with rice, though it can also be enjoyed with rotis. The subtle blend of spices and the careful preparation process make it a memorable dish in the Sambalpuri culinary repertoire.
Sambalpur’s food scene is a gateway to understanding the rich cultural and culinary traditions of Odisha. Each dish tells a story of the region’s history, ingredients, and the people who have crafted these recipes over generations. For those visiting Sambalpur, indulging in these traditional dishes is not just about satisfying hunger but about experiencing a piece of the city's soul.
