%20(3).png)
Bihari cuisine reflects the state's rich cultural heritage, characterized by its simplicity, earthiness, and robust flavours. Central to this cuisine is mustard oil, an ingredient that has been indispensable in Bihari kitchens for generations. Its pungent aroma and sharp flavour are integral to the authenticity of Bihari dishes, offering a unique taste that sets them apart from other regional cuisines in India. Beyond just flavour, mustard oil holds a special place in the cultural and culinary traditions of Bihar, symbolizing the region's agricultural roots and its people’s connection to the land.
Historical Background of Mustard Oil in Bihar
Mustard oil has a deep-rooted history in Bihar, where its use dates back to ancient times. The abundance of mustard fields in the region made it a readily available and affordable cooking medium. Traditionally, Bihari households would press their mustard seeds to extract oil, ensuring a fresh and pure product. This practice not only made mustard oil a staple in Bihari cuisine but also a symbol of self-reliance and sustainability. Over the centuries, the use of mustard oil has been passed down through generations, maintaining its place as a cornerstone of Bihari culinary traditions.
Mustard Oil in Everyday Bihari Dishes
Litti Chokha
Perhaps the most iconic Bihari dish, litti chokha is incomplete without the use of mustard oil. The litti, a dough ball stuffed with roasted gram flour and spices, is often dipped in mustard oil before being baked. The chokha, made from mashed vegetables like eggplant, tomatoes, and potatoes, is tempered with mustard oil, giving it a rich and smoky flavour.
Sattu Paratha
A staple breakfast dish, sattu paratha, is made from roasted gram flour stuffed inside a wheat dough. The parathas are fried in mustard oil, which not only enhances their taste but also adds a layer of crispness that is quintessentially Bihari.
Machhli Jhor
Fish curry, or machhli jhor, is a popular dish in Bihar. The fish is marinated in turmeric and mustard oil, which imparts a deep flavour that blends perfectly with the mustard-based gravy.
Ghugni
A spicy and tangy preparation of black gram, ghugni is often enjoyed as a snack or side dish. The use of mustard oil in tempering the spices is what gives ghugni its sharp and spicy kick.
Mustard Oil in Festive and Special Occasions
Chhath Puja Thekua
During Chhath Puja, an important festival in Bihar, mustard oil is used to prepare thekua, a traditional sweet made from wheat flour, jaggery, and coconut. The distinctive taste of thekua owes much to the use of mustard oil, which helps in achieving the right texture and flavour.
Wedding Rituals
In wedding ceremonies, mustard oil is used in various rituals, symbolizing purity and prosperity. The oil is often used to light lamps during religious ceremonies, underscoring its cultural importance beyond the kitchen.
Ward Off Evil
Mustard oil is also used in various cultural practices to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. In rural Bihar, it is common to see mustard oil being sprinkled around the house or on the doorstep to keep negative energies at bay.
Conclusion
Mustard oil is not just an ingredient in Bihari cuisine; it is a cultural emblem that carries the essence of Bihar’s traditions and history. From everyday meals to festive dishes, mustard oil imparts a distinctive flavour that is inextricably linked to the identity of Bihari food. Its enduring presence in Bihari kitchens speaks to its versatility and importance, ensuring that it remains a cherished component of the region’s culinary landscape.
