Patna, the capital of Bihar, is not only known for its historical significance but also for its rich and diverse food culture. The city’s cuisine is deeply influenced by traditional Bihari flavors, which are simple yet incredibly delicious. From street food delights to home-cooked delicacies, Patna offers a variety of dishes that capture the essence of Bihar’s culinary traditions.
If you ever visit Patna, these ten famous foods should definitely be on your must-try list!
1. Litti Chokha
Litti Chokha is one of the most well-known dishes in Bihar and a favorite among the people of Patna. It consists of litti, which are wheat flour balls stuffed with sattu (roasted gram flour) and baked over coal or cow dung cakes, giving them a smoky flavor. The littis are then served with chokha, a mashed mixture of roasted eggplant, boiled potatoes, tomatoes, mustard oil, and spices.
This dish is not just delicious but also highly nutritious, making it a staple in many households across Bihar. It is often enjoyed with a generous drizzle of ghee, adding an extra layer of richness to its taste.
2. Khaja
Khaja is a traditional Bihari sweet that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is made by deep-frying layers of refined flour dough and then soaking them in sugar syrup. The result is a crisp, flaky, and sweet treat that melts in the mouth.
Khaja is commonly served during festivals, weddings, and other celebrations in Patna. It is also a popular offering at the famous Jain temples in Bihar.
3. Sattu Paratha
Sattu, made from roasted gram flour, is a staple ingredient in Bihari cuisine. One of the best ways to enjoy it is in the form of sattu paratha, a stuffed flatbread filled with a mixture of sattu, onions, green chilies, lemon juice, and spices.
This paratha is known for its high protein content and is often served with curd, pickles, or chutney. It is a favorite breakfast item in Patna, providing energy for the entire day.
4. Thekua
Thekua is a traditional Bihari sweet that holds cultural and religious significance. It is made by mixing wheat flour, jaggery (or sugar), ghee, and cardamom, then deep-frying the dough into crispy golden brown pieces.
This sweet treat is commonly prepared during Chhath Puja, one of the most important festivals in Bihar. It has a long shelf life, making it a great snack to carry while traveling.
5. Dal Pitha
Dal Pitha is Bihar’s version of dumplings. These are made from rice flour dough filled with spiced lentil paste, shaped into small dumplings, and then steamed. They are somewhat similar to momos but have a unique taste due to the lentil stuffing.
Served with chutney or ghee, Dal Pitha is a healthy and flavorful dish often enjoyed as a snack or light meal in Patna.
6. Malpua
Malpua is a popular dessert in Bihar, especially during festivals like Holi and Chhath Puja. These are small, deep-fried pancakes made from a batter of flour, milk, sugar, and mashed bananas. Once fried, they are soaked in sugar syrup, giving them a rich and aromatic flavor.
Malpuas are best enjoyed warm and are sometimes served with rabri (thickened sweetened milk) for an added indulgence.
7. Chana Ghugni
Chana Ghugni is a delicious and spicy dish made from black gram or white peas cooked with onions, tomatoes, and a variety of spices. It is often garnished with chopped coriander, lemon juice, and green chilies.
This dish is a popular street food in Patna and is commonly eaten as an evening snack. It pairs well with murmura (puffed rice) for a satisfying and crunchy combination.
8. Mutton Kebab
For non-vegetarians, Patna offers mouth-watering Mutton Kebabs. These juicy, spiced meat pieces are grilled to perfection and served with green chutney and onions.
The kebabs are often made using minced mutton mixed with aromatic spices, giving them a rich and smoky taste. They are widely available at local eateries and food stalls in Patna.
9. Laung-Latika
Laung-Latika is a deep-fried pastry stuffed with a sweet filling made of khoya (reduced milk), sugar, and cardamom. The edges of the pastry are sealed with a clove (laung), which gives the dish its name.
After frying, the pastry is dipped in sugar syrup, making it crunchy on the outside and soft inside. This sweet treat is particularly popular during winter and festive seasons in Patna.
10. Makhana Kheer
Makhana (fox nuts) is widely grown in Bihar and is used in various dishes, including Makhana Kheer, a delicious dessert. The fox nuts are roasted and then simmered in milk with sugar, cardamom, and dry fruits until thickened.
This dish is a favorite during fasts and festivals, offering a creamy and delightful taste with a slight crunch from the roasted makhana.
Conclusion
Patna’s food culture is a perfect blend of traditional flavors and rich heritage. Whether you prefer sweet treats like Khaja and Malpua or savory delights like Litti Chokha and Mutton Kebab, the city offers something for every food lover.
If you ever visit Patna, make sure to try these dishes and experience the authentic flavors of Bihar. Which of these foods would you like to taste first? Let us know in the comments!