Bhagalpur is a city located in the Indian state of Bihar. It is the third-largest city in Bihar, with a population of approximately 4,20,000 people. The city is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and unique cuisine. The people of Bhagalpur lead a relaxed life and have a deep appreciation for good food and drinks.
Bhagalpur's cuisine is heavily influenced by the traditional dishes of Bihar and the neighboring state of West Bengal. One of the most popular dishes in Bhagalpur is Litti Chokha. Litti is a round, baked wheat flour ball that is stuffed with a mixture of sattu (powdered gram), spices, and mustard oil. It is served with chokha, which is made by mashing boiled potatoes, roasted eggplant, and tomato, and is flavored with mustard oil, chopped onions, and green chilies. This dish is usually enjoyed during lunch or dinner and is a staple food in Bhagalpur.
Another popular dish in Bhagalpur is Ghugni. It is a spicy curry made with boiled yellow peas, chopped onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices. It is served with hot samosas or puris. The dish is enjoyed as a snack or as a light meal in the evening.
Bhagalpur is also known for its delicious fish dishes, especially the Rohu fish curry. It is a spicy fish curry made with pieces of Rohu fish, chopped onions, garlic, ginger, tomato, and a blend of spices. The fish is first marinated with salt and turmeric powder and then fried in mustard oil. It is served with hot rice or roti and is a popular dish for lunch or dinner.
Another dish that is popular in Bhagalpur is the Bihari kebab. It is a spicy grilled kebab made with minced mutton, chopped onions, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices. The kebab is marinated with yogurt and then grilled over a charcoal fire. It is served with hot naan bread or paratha.
Bhagalpur is also famous for its sweets, especially the Tilkut. It is a sweet made with sesame seeds, jaggery, and ghee. The sesame seeds are roasted and then mixed with jaggery syrup and ghee. The mixture is then shaped into small balls or flat discs and is enjoyed as a dessert or as a snack.
In terms of drinks, Bhagalpur is known for its famous lassi. It is a thick and creamy yogurt-based drink that is flavored with various fruits and spices. The most popular flavors are mango, banana, and cardamom. It is enjoyed as a refreshing drink during the hot summer months.
Another popular drink in Bhagalpur is the Thandai. It is a cold milk-based drink that is flavored with a blend of spices, including saffron, cardamom, fennel seeds, and rose petals. It is served as a welcome drink during festivals and special occasions.
The people of Bhagalpur usually have their meals at home, and lunch and dinner are the main meals of the day. Snacks are usually enjoyed in the evening, and street food is a popular option. The city has a vibrant street food scene, and there are numerous food stalls and carts that offer a variety of delicious snacks and drinks. The nightlife in Bhagalpur is relatively quiet, and people usually prefer to spend their evenings at home with their families.