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Bihar, often called the ‘Abode of Peace’, is a state brimming with rich culture and culinary heritage. The name has been derived from the Pali and Sanskrit word - Vihara, referring to a dwelling place. It is known for its pilgrimage sites, vast history, and lip-smacking dishes that can make every foodie drool at the sight.
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While a few dishes like chicken champaran and litti chokha have transcended state boundaries and have become global favourites, many more culinary gems are hiding in the traditional kitchens of Bihar. You can only explore them if you take a walk through the micro cuisines of the state.
Mithila Cuisine
In the northern part of Bihar, you will witness mithila cuisine comprising flavourful dishes prepared with seasonal vegetables. If you are a vegetarian looking for new recipes to add to your cookbook, this is where you will find inspiration. Visit cities like Bhagalpur, Begusarai, Purnia, etc. to enjoy dishes like makhana kheer, tarua (fritters made with pumpkin, banana, and seasonal vegetables), and badi ki sabzi (curry served with sun-fried dumplings).
Champaran Cuisine
Cities like Bettiah, Kotwa, Madhuban, Raxaul, and more are where you can experience the traditional cooking and savour dishes belonging to Champaran cuisine. Sattu paratha is a dish originating in this region, and it is a power-packed meal. Most of the dishes here boast earthy tones and are prepared via slow cooking. Some other creations to relish include handi biryani and Champaran meat (slow-cooked mutton in spices and mustard oil).
Magahi Cuisine
Patna, Muzaffarnagar, and Chapra are cities located in central Bihar. The culture here reflects roots in Magadh (modern-day Nalanda, Gaya, and nearby areas). The dishes cooked in this region are packed with flavours and nutritional elements. Dishes like litti chokha, kadhi badi (besan dumplings cooked in yoghurt-based gravy), and tilkut (sweet made with sesame seeds during Makar Sankranti) are popular here.
Angika Cuisine
In the partners of eastern Bihar, you will find dishes with rice and fish as star ingredients. They are comforting, lip-smacking, and lightweight. Regions like Munger and Bhagalpur are the best places to explore local delights like bari dal (lentils with sun-dried dumplings), machli jhor (fish curry prepared with turmeric and mustard seeds base), and khurma (a deep-fried sweet snack).
Tribal Cuisine
Near the Chotanagpur plateau and South of Bihar, you will find tribal communities preparing one-of-a-kind dishes. Their recipes are prepared with forest produce, making them a powerhouse of nutrition. Dishes like rugra curry (made with local mushrooms), dhuska (fried lentil and rice pancake), and pakhala bhaat (fermented rice dish) have origins here.
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Bhojpuri Cuisine
In the western regions of Bihar, you can locate restaurants and joints serving lip-smacking non-vegetarian and vegetarian delights. The Bhojpuri cuisine is a smooth blend of culinary cultures from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Chana ghugni (spiced chickpea curry), thekua (deep-fried sweet), and pitwa (rice-based porridge) are among must-try if you are visiting Bihar.
