Patna, the vibrant capital of Bihar, offers a rich tapestry of culinary delights that reflect its cultural heritage and regional flavors. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the top 10 must-try foods in Patna:
1. Litti Chokha
- Description: A quintessential Bihari dish, Litti consists of whole wheat flour dough balls stuffed with roasted gram flour (sattu) and spices, traditionally baked over charcoal. It’s paired with Chokha, a mashed mixture of roasted vegetables like eggplant, tomato, and potato, seasoned with mustard oil and spices.
- Where to Try: D K Litti Chokha (Fraser Road), Bhojpur Litti Chokha (Golambar).
2. Sattu Paratha
- Description: A stuffed flatbread made from sattu (roasted gram flour) mixed with spices, herbs, and sometimes onions and green chilies. It’s typically served with curd or pickle.
- Where to Try: The Taste of Bihar (Boring Road), Udaan Cafe (Exhibition Road), Chawla Dillivala (Fraser Road).
3. Chana Ghugni
- Description: A spicy and tangy curry made from black chickpeas (chana), cooked with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. It’s often garnished with chopped onions, green chilies, coriander, and lime juice.
- Where to Try: Prince Chaat Corner (Boring Road), New Maharaja Chaat (Fraser Road), Aloo Tikki Wala (Kankarbagh).
4. Khaja
- Description: A traditional Bihari sweet made from wheat flour and sugar syrup, resulting in a crispy, multi-layered texture. It’s a popular dessert during festivals and special occasions.
- Where to Try: Sri Krishna Sweets (Boring Road), Harilal Sweets (Fraser Road), Raj Bhog (Dak Bungalow Road).
5. Malpua
- Description: A deep-fried pancake made from flour, milk, and mashed bananas, soaked in sugar syrup. It’s often flavored with fennel seeds and cardamom.
- Where to Try: Sri Krishna Sweets (Boring Road), Harilal Sweets (Fraser Road), Raj Bhog (Dak Bungalow Road).
6. Balushahi
- Description: A deep-fried pastry made from all-purpose flour (maida), ghee (clarified butter), and a touch of baking soda. After frying, it’s dipped into a sugar syrup flavored with cardamom, resulting in a rich and sweet treat.
- Where to Try: Sri Krishna Sweets (Boring Road), Harilal Sweets (Fraser Road), Raj Bhog (Dak Bungalow Road).
7. Dal Pitha
- Description: Steamed or boiled wheat dumplings stuffed with a spicy lentil filling. It’s a wholesome and satisfying dish, often enjoyed with chutney or curry.
- Where to Try: Local eateries and traditional food stalls across Patna.
8. Mutton Korma
- Description: A rich and flavorful curry made from tender mutton pieces cooked in a blend of yogurt, spices, and herbs. It’s a popular dish among non-vegetarian enthusiasts.
- Where to Try: Pind Balluchi (Fraser Road), Swaaddesh (Boring Road), The Yellow Chilli (Frazer Road).
9. Tilkut
- Description: A sweet made from sesame seeds and jaggery, often enjoyed during winters. It’s a popular treat in Bihar and Jharkhand.
- Where to Try: Sweet shops across Patna, especially near Gandhi Maidan.
10. Thekua
- Description: A traditional Bihari sweet snack made during religious festivals like Chhath Puja. It’s prepared with wheat flour, jaggery (or sugar), and ghee, shaped into small discs, and deep-fried to perfection.
- Where to Try: Sweet shops across Patna, especially near Gandhi Maidan.
Exploring Patna’s culinary landscape offers a delightful journey through its rich traditions and flavors. Whether you’re indulging in street food or savoring traditional sweets, each dish tells a story of the city’s heritage. Enjoy your gastronomic adventure in Patna!