Tribal life in Odisha is simple yet joyous, celebrating life with the simple foods and drinks in the community.
Living in the jungle-cradled parts of Odisha, they adopt simple lifestyles that largely depend on nature and the forest.
Learning about their food is a unique way to know more about their interesting lifestyle.
In this story, let’s explore the tribal cuisines that may win your heart with their simplicity and distinct flavour.
Red ant chutney: Recently in the news for winning the GI tag, this delicacy is prepared from red ants found in the jungles of the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha.
Handia: It’s a semi-solid dish made by fermenting rice and using traditional methods. It tastes best when accompanied with tamarind chutney, chilly, and salt.
Rasi: It’s a delicious drink and also made from fermented rice using the same method as Handia.
Black gram pitha: These delicacies are prepared using black gram, rice batter, and mahua fruits and relished on special occasions, like festivals or marriages.
Raggi porridge: It’s a type of dessert made with cooked rice and ragi. This nutritious dish is savoured daily by tribal people.