Bhunjiya To Dhuska: 7 Delicious Street Foods From Bihar And Jharkhand

The culinary landscape of Bihar and Jharkhand is a treasure trove of delicious street foods that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage, which are criminally underrated. These states boast a diverse range of dishes that cater to both vegetarians and meat lovers. From the crunchy and delicious taste of Bhunjiya to the deep-fried indulgence of Dhuska, these street foods are an integral part of the local food culture. Here are seven mouthwatering street foods that are a must-try when you visit Bihar and Jharkhand.

Litti Chokha:

Litti Chokha is an iconic combination that's essentially the heart and soul of Bihari cuisine. Litti, small wheat flour balls, are roasted over an open flame and then served with a delectable side of chokha, a mashed mixture of roasted eggplant, tomatoes, and spices. This dish is often accompanied by a generous drizzle of desi ghee to enhance its flavour. Litti Chokha is not only delicious but also a nutritional powerhouse, making it a staple in the region.

Dhuska:

This is a popular snack in Jharkhand, often enjoyed as a breakfast street food. It's made from a batter of rice and lentils, seasoned with spices, and deep-fried into crispy, golden discs. The crispy exterior gives way to a soft and flavourful inside. Dhuska is typically served with mutton during festive feats or aloo dum for a delicious contrast of textures and tastes. This delightful snack provides comfort and satisfaction, making it a go-to choice for locals and tourists alike.

Bhunjiya:

Bhunjiya is a savoury snack that's loved for its fiery and tangy flavors. Made from besan, spices, and herbs, it's shaped into small balls and deep-fried until crisp. These spiced gram flour fritters are then tossed in a tempering of mustard seeds, puffed rice, namkeen and green chillies, giving them an irresistible punch. Bhunjiya is often served with a side of tangy tamarind chutney, making it a favourite evening snack for people of Bihar and Jharkhand.

Ghugni:

Recipe - NishaMadhulika

This is a delightful street food made from dried yellow peas. These peas are cooked to a soft consistency and then flavored with spices like cumin, ginger, and chilli. Ghugni is often served with chopped onions, green chillies, and a sprinkle of fresh coriander. The result is a mouthwatering combination of textures and tastes. It's commonly found at street stalls, especially during the winter months when it's relished as a warm and filling snack.

Sattu Paratha:

Sattu Paratha is a popular street food in Bihar and Jharkhand, known for its simplicity and taste. Sattu, a roasted gram flour, is mixed with spices and herbs to create a tasty filling. This filling is then stuffed into whole wheat parathas and roasted until they turn golden brown and crispy. Sattu Parathas are often served with tangy pickles, dahi and ghee. They are not only delicious but also nutritious, making them a favoured choice for breakfast.

Kachori-Sabji-Jalebi:

The trio of khasta kachori, filled with masala sattu, some delicious and tangy aloo-sabji and the sweet, crunchy jalebi: there can be nothing better than this breakfast combination. This is a common street food in both Bihar and Jharkhand, and people line up in the morning to buy the dishes from vendors. The flaky kachoris pair well with runny, spicy sabji and sweet jalebis balance everything well.

Dal Pitha:

Dal Pitha is a steamed dumpling, a popular snack in both Bihar and Jharkhand. These dumplings are made from rice flour and filled with a flavorful mixture of spiced lentils, usually arhar or chana dal. The dumplings are then steamed until they become soft and tender. Dal Pitha is often served with a drizzle of ghee and a side of tangy tomato chutney. The combination of the soft dumplings and the spicy lentil filling creates a satisfying and delectable snack that's enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.