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Bundelkhand is a land that has witnessed important events in the history of India. So many kings have ruled Bundelkhand and introduced new customs and practices among the people. This led to a very unique culinary and customary culture among the people of Bundelkhand that is different from the others. The special Cuisine of Bundelkhand is known as Bundelkhandi cuisine. The whole credit for keeping the true essence of this cuisine alive goes to the traditional households of Bundelkhand.
The food in this cuisine is made with the heavy use of spices and oil. If you are somebody who doesn't like eating spicy food, then you might not like the food in this cuisine. Although you will find a lot of light options like Maheri which is very much like a Khichdi for yourself, Bundelkhandi cuisine dominantly consists of heavily spiced and tomato-based foods.
For people who love eating non-vegetarian food seasoned with Indian spices, this cuisine is a boon. There are a lot of unmatched non-vegetarian options like Bundeli gosht, Kadaknath Murgja and Keeme Ki Tikki that you can choose to make at your home. Most of these dishes are also known by other names in different regions of Bundelkhand. Chicken is a very popular condiment in Bundelkhandi cuisine and a lot of chicken-based dishes are made in this cuisine.
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Geographical Influence
One of the biggest factors that has led to the rise of Bundelkhandi cuisine is its geographical location. It is nestled between Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh and is influenced by the food culture of both states. Also, the influence of the history of Bundelkhand on its contemporary cuisine is pretty evident. This cuisine is known for its rustic and flavourful dishes that also heavily rely on the agricultural and naturally available ingredients in the area.
Most of these dishes have been passed on through generations and were also a result of the local produce. It is a harmonious blend of various communities that includes Rajputs, moguls and indigenous tribes. The flavours present in most of the Bundelkhandi dishes are also shaped by the climatic conditions of the area so that people can eat these dishes easily and also get the maximum health benefits.
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Staple Ingredients
A lot of grains like bajra, millet, Jowar and wheat are extremely popular in this cuisine. These grains are used in the preparation of breads and porridges. You can also prepare lentils and pulses, including chana dal, Arhar dal and urad Dal. A lot of locally available spices like turmeric, cumin, and hing are also very popular condiments in the preparation of discussion. The spices not only help in adding depth to the dishes but also have multiple medicinal benefits. Vegetables like pumpkin and yam are used in different curries and are also very popular in this cuisine because of are locally available
As stated above, non-vegetarian food is a very important part of this cousin. Most of the non-vegetarian dishes are made from chicken or goat meat. Many dairy products are also used in the preparation of these dishes. This includes ghee and yoghurt. Some of the most popular and signature dishes from this cuisine include Bundelkhandi Gosht Korma, Panchemel Dal, Kachori Sabzi and Balushahi. The Panchemel Dal is made by mixing five different types of lentils that are simmered with a lot of spices and fresh coriander. This is a very wholesome and nutritious meal that can be eaten with rice or roti.
Culinary Traditions
The culinary traditions in Bundelkhand are very closely interwoven with the traditional festivals and community customs. Occasions like weddings and religious ceremonies are incomplete without the presence of special Bundelkhandi dishes. These dishes are prepared with proper expertise and particular ingredients that give them a very decisive flavour. Harvest festivals are also very important occasions in Bundelkhand because this is the perfect opportunity to showcase the local produce and culinary traditions of the area. These gatherings are not just celebratory occasions but an opportunity for the whole community to come together and celebrate with harmony.
The people of Bundelkhand have been able to preserve the food landscape of the region through the years. This is a result of the constant initiatives undertaken by local communities and people of the community living in different parts of the country. The cuisine of Bundelkhand is more than just about food. It is a celebration and a constant reminder of our traditions and history.
