Bhojpuri Cuisine: Food From Uttar Pradesh & Bihar in India

Bhojupur region is an area comprising the parts of North Eastern Indian states Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

The style of cooking among the Bhojpuri community is associated with the lifestyle of  rural people working in the agricultural fields and the dishes are very simple yet delectable, bursting with an array of flavours. The dishes are healthy and well balanced.

Rice and wheat are the staple grains used in this cuisine. Sattu (roasted bengal gram flour) is widely used and has been an integral part of every Bhojpuri households meal. It is used in various ways such as in flatbreads and drinks for its high protein content and cooling properties, ideal on hot summer days.

Most dishes are mild and use minimal spices and have a slight influence from neighbouring Awadhi cuisine.

Popular vegetarian dishes of Bhojpuri cuisine:

Bharbhara: A shallow-fried fritter made of gram flour, peas and spices. It’s a classic accompaniment with tea and coffee.

Dahi Chura: A healthy dish prepared with flattened rice, jaggery, yogurt fruits and nuts. A traditional Bhojpuri dish served as breakfast on special occasions specifically on Makar Sankranti.

Kadhi bhari:  Spiced yogurt based gravy with dumplings made of chana dal paste, spices and herbs. This Bhojpuri Kadhi is slightly different from Punjabi and Rajasthani Kadhi.

Sattu ka Paratha: Protein and fibre rich flatbread made of roasted gram flour (sattu).

Dal Pithi:  A super delicious and healthy dal dish made of lentils and wheat flour, served with raita and salad.

Dal Pitha: Half moon shaped steamed rice flour dumplings stuffed with spiced lentil paste. It is served with chutney or pickle. These are the slightly different to Odia cuisine pitha and a kind of savoury version of modak from Maharastrian cuisine 

Gurma: A traditional sweet dish made of raw mango, sugar and wheat flour. It tastes great on its own or with roti.

Khurma: A popular dessert made of channa and sugar.

Tilkut: A crunchy snack bar made of sesame seeds and jaggery.

Tikari: It is also called Balushahi, is a rich dessert that resembles glazed doughnut in appearance but differs in texture and taste.

Kasaar: Fabulous sweet balls made of rice flour and sweetener.

Rasiyaaw: Delicious sweet dish made of rice and jaggery.