In the fourth episode of regional foods of India series for our young children audience, we cover the eastern states of the country. 

Odisha, known as much for its scenic beauty and archaeological abundance, is also famous for its intriguing cuisines. Rice being the staple food of the people of Odisha, locals prefer to cook their meals using fewer spices and very less oil. The one dish we talk about from Odisha is “Khaja”. It is a sweet and crispy dessert that can be found anywhere in this state and is also offered as Prashad in the famous Jagannath Temple located in Puri. 

Next, we come to West Bengal, the place of “Fish & Rice”. Bengali culture had its share of European influence and so is the case with cuisine -like Chops & Cutlets are made often in Bengali households. The one dish we love from Bengal and we talk about in this episode are the steamed potatoes, popularly known as “Bhaapa Alu”. It is just a simple meal made by steaming potatoes by five spices but that leaves a lingering taste in your mouth.

Coming to the adjacent state of Bihar, this state is known for its world-famous Madhubani paintings and the local cuisine here is a mixture of North and East India. Bihari cuisines are usually three types: Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Magadhi cuisine. One dish that can also be termed as the official dish of Bihar is Litti Chokha. Litti is made of baked dough and Chokha is roasted eggplant, potatoes, and tomatoes. This mouthwatering dish is always served with a tablespoon of ghee.

Jharkhand is a place which is natural greenery through its well-preserved forests and staple food of this state are rice, dal (pulses), and vegetables. Authentic Jharkhand cuisines are prepared with low oil and less spice content. One such dish is “Pittha” which is a type of baked or fried rice cake stuffed with vegetables and often eaten with a variety of side dishes.

Chattisgarh is popularly known as “Rice bowl of India” and the special dish of this state “Muthia” is also rice-based. These are technically dumplings made out of rice batter with a lot of spices used. Sesame seed is one of the main ingredients used for seasoning this dish. 

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