Chhattisgarhi cuisine

Overview of the traditional cuisine of Chhattisgarh, India

Chhattisgarhi cuisine is a distinctive culinary tradition from the Indian state of Chhattisgarh. Known for its simplicity and use of locally available ingredients, Chhattisgarhi cuisine reflects the agrarian lifestyle and cultural heritage of the region. The cuisine is predominantly vegetarian, though some communities also consume meat and fish.

Staple Foods

The staple food of Chhattisgarh is rice, which is consumed in various forms. Rice is often accompanied by dal, vegetables, and pickles. The region's fertile land supports the cultivation of a variety of pulses and vegetables, which are integral to the local diet.

Rice with dal and drumstick curry, a typical meal

Rice Dishes

Rice is central to Chhattisgarhi meals. Popular rice-based dishes include:

• Bafauri: A steamed dish made from gram flour and spices, often served as a snack.
• Chausela: A type of fried bread made from rice flour.
• Fara: Dumplings made from rice flour, typically steamed and served with chutney.

Traditional Dishes

Chhattisgarhi cuisine features a variety of traditional dishes that are unique to the region.

Khurmi, a sweet dish

Khurmi

Khurmi is a popular sweet dish made from rice flour, jaggery, and coconut. It is often prepared during festivals and special occasions.

Ropa Bhaji

Ropa Bhaji is a traditional vegetable dish made with seasonal greens and spices. It is typically served with rice or roti.

Ropa Bhaji, a traditional vegetable dish

Angakar Roti

Angakar Roti is a type of flatbread made from rice flour. It is a staple in many households and is often served with curries or chutneys.

Angakar Roti, a rice flour flatbread

Dhuska

Dhuska is a deep-fried snack made from rice and lentil batter. It is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often enjoyed with chutney or curry.

Dhuska with Pataal Jhojho

Festive Foods

During festivals, Chhattisgarhi cuisine becomes even more diverse with the preparation of special dishes.

Pataal Jhojho

Pataal Jhojho is a festive dish made with colocasia leaves and a spicy gram flour paste. It is typically prepared during the monsoon season.

Beverages

Traditional beverages in Chhattisgarh include:

• Mahua: A fermented drink made from the flowers of the mahua tree.
• Sulphi: A natural beverage extracted from the sulphi tree, often consumed fresh.

Related Pages

• Indian cuisine
• Madhya Pradesh cuisine
• Odisha cuisine