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Arunachal Pradesh is one of those states that is unexplored by the majority, but those who do get to know this place inevitably fall in love with it. The state is surrounded by countries like China, Bhutan, Myanmar, and states like Assam and Nagaland. It has rich and diverse cultures along with stunning natural surroundings. While non-vegetarian dishes are prominent in the state's cuisine, traditional vegetarian foods are also an integral part of the diet. The dishes are wholesome in themselves due to their subtle taste. You can easily identify an Arunachali dish while having it. Here are a few traditional veg dishes for you to try:
Seasonal Veggies In Bamboo Shoot
In Arunachal Pradeshi cooking, bamboo shoots can be found in a wide range of foods, from pickles to veggies. To give the shoots a tasty and spicy flavour, they are finely chopped, shredded, and seasoned. Due to its adaptability, this component can be used in a variety of recipes. Bamboo shoots, in general, enhance the taste of a number of dishes.
Pehak
Pehak is a spicy chutney made from fermented soya beans and red chillies. This is often served with rice. The inclusion of King Chilly gives it a hot and tangy flavour, which makes it a perfect side dish to complement plain rice. Pehak's robust taste highlights the innovative use of food fermentation in Arunachal Pradesh.
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Mala Roti & Chutney Byak
Mala roti is a popular dish in the state of Arunachal Pradesh. Sweet rice is used to make the bread, which is shaped like a ring and deep-fried. Cardamom and cloves are examples of spices that can impart flavour to the dish. Usually eaten with byak, a chutney or side dish. This meal is prepared with Thai aubergine that has been cooked or roasted. After that, to add a sour taste, it is mixed with ginger, red chillies, and a few other herbs. This is a go-to side dish for native Arunachalis. If you are travelling to Arunachal Pradesh for the very first time, add this to your food list.
Chura Sabji
This is a spicy yet tasty sabji curry made with fermented cheese made from either cow's milk or yak milk and vegetables. The flakes and a few pieces of King chilli are also a must-have ingredient. This meal offers a noticeable change from the typical subdued tastes of Arunachal's food. Chura sabji is a beloved dish for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals.
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Kharzi
Arunachal Pradesh is a state where the locals are more towards fermenting their food items to preserve them for a longer period. The fermentation also helps to improve the flavours of the foods. Another Arunachali treat is kharzi, which is comprised of fermented cheese, rice, carrots, spring onions, chillis, and a few other things. There are many different ways to prepare Kharzi in this state, but if you want to try the real deal, you need to go to a Monpa tribe home.
Koat Pitha
Koat pitha is a popular sweet dish in Arunachal Pradesh, made from jaggery, banana, flour, mustard oil, and water. The ingredients are mixed into a thick batter and deep-fried until golden brown. Resembling doughnuts, these sweet fritters have a unique flavour, thanks to the use of mustard oil. Koat pitha is an excellent way to end a meal on a sweet note.
