Bastar Cuisine and Beverages

Bastar, a region in the southern part of Chhattisgarh, India, has a rich and unique cuisine that is heavily influenced by the local tribal culture. The cuisine of the Bastar region in Chhattisgarh, India, is a unique blend of traditional tribal flavors and contemporary Indian cuisine. The region is known for its use of locally-sourced ingredients, such as rice, lentils, and a variety of herbs and spices, which are used to create a range of flavorful dishes. In addition to food, the Bastar region is also home to a number of traditional beverages that reflect the area’s rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the popular dishes and beverages of the region:

Dhuska

Dhuska is a savory pancake made with rice and lentil batter. It is a popular breakfast item in Bastar and is often served with spicy potato curry.

Choila

One of the most popular dishes in the Bastar region is called the “choila.” This is a dish made with marinated meat, typically chicken or mutton, that is grilled over an open flame. The meat is marinated in a mixture of yogurt, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices, which gives it a unique flavor. The dish is typically served with rice and a side of vegetables.

Chila

Chila is another type of pancake made with gram flour, and it is often served with chutney or yoghurt. The “Chila” is another popular dish in the Bastar region. It is a pancake made with a batter of rice flour, lentils, and spices, which is then topped with vegetables, such as onions, tomatoes, and green chilies. The dish is often served with a side of chutney, which is made with mint, coriander, and other herbs and spices.

Gulgula

Another popular dish in the Bastar region is the “Gulgula,” which is a sweet snack made with wheat flour, jaggery, and coconut. The dough is deep-fried in hot oil, which gives it a crispy texture on the outside and a soft, sweet center. The dish is often served as a dessert or as a snack with tea or coffee.

Sabudana Kheer

Sabudana Kheer is a sweet pudding made with sago pearls, milk, sugar, and cardamom. It is a popular dessert in the region.

Bhajia

Bhajia is a deep-fried snack made with different vegetables like onion, potato, and spinach. It is a popular tea-time snack in Bastar.

Muthiya

Muthiya is a steamed dumpling made with rice flour and is often served with spicy chutney.

Mahua Drink

Mahua is a popular alcoholic drink made with flowers of the Mahua tree. It has a sweet and fruity flavor and is consumed during festivals and special occasions. The Bastar region is also known for its traditional beverages. One of the most popular drinks in the region is called the “mahua,” which is a fermented drink made with the flowers of the mahua tree. The flowers are mixed with water and left to ferment for several days, which gives the drink a slightly sour taste. The mahua is often served during festivals and other special occasions.

Sulphi

Another popular beverage in the Bastar region is the “Sulphi,” which is a type of rice beer. The beer is made by fermenting rice with a mixture of herbs and spices, which gives it a unique flavor. The beer is often served at social gatherings, such as weddings and other celebrations.

Char

Char is a fermented drink made with rice and is often served with spicy chutney. It is a popular beverage in Bastar and is consumed during festivals and weddings.

Overall, the cuisine and beverages of Bastar reflect the unique culture and traditions of the region and are a must-try for anyone visiting the area.

In conclusion, the cuisine and beverages of the Bastar region in Chhattisgarh, India, are a unique reflection of the region’s rich cultural heritage. The use of locally-sourced ingredients, such as rice, lentils, and a variety of herbs and spices, creates a range of flavorful dishes that are enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. The traditional beverages of the region, such as the mahua and sulphi, are also an essential part of the local culture, and they provide a fascinating glimpse into the area’s rich history and traditions.