Bihar is full of rich traditions, festivals, and simplicity. And one of the most beautiful parts of our culture is the food. Bihari cuisine is not just about taste, it’s about memories, warmth, and love. From street food to homemade delicacies, the dishes here are soulful and unforgettable.
If you are from Bihar, this list will remind you of home. And if you are visiting Bihar, make sure you don’t miss these 10 famous dishes.
Here are the Top 10 famous Bihari foods that you must try at least once in your life. Whether you’re a proud Bihari or just curious to explore local Indian cuisine, these dishes will win your heart and your taste buds.
1) Litti Chokha
Litti Chokha is the pride of Bihar. Litti is made from wheat flour dough filled with sattu (roasted gram flour) mixed with mustard oil, garlic, and spices. It’s roasted over coal or wood fire, which gives it a smoky flavour.
Chokha is a mashed mix of boiled or roasted potato, tomato, and brinjal with raw mustard oil, chopped garlic, and green chilli. When eaten together, Litti and Chokha create a delicious, healthy, and fulfilling meal that every Bihari loves.
2) Sattu Paratha
Sattu Paratha is a simple but power-packed meal. It is a stuffed paratha made with spicy sattu, onions, green chilli, lemon juice, and mustard oil.
It is mostly eaten for breakfast and goes best with curd, pickles, or green chutney. This dish is very healthy, full of energy, and keeps you active for hours.
3) Khaja
Khaja is a crunchy, layered sweet snack that melts in your mouth. It is made from maida (refined flour), fried until golden, and dipped in sugar syrup.
It is often made during weddings and festivals and is especially famous in Silao near Nalanda. If you have a sweet tooth, Khaja will become your instant favorite.
4) Thekua
Thekua is a traditional sweet that is most popular during Chhath Puja. It is made using wheat flour, jaggery or sugar, and desi ghee, and then deep-fried till crispy.
Thekua stays fresh for days, which makes it perfect for travel. It is not just a snack but an emotion for many families who prepare it together during religious festivals.
5) Dal Pitha
Dal Pitha is Bihar’s very own version of dumplings. It is made from rice flour dough filled with spiced lentils (mostly chana dal) and then steamed.
This dish is light, healthy, and full of traditional flavours. It’s usually eaten with chutney or spicy pickles and is a favourite in many homes during special occasions.
6) Chana Ghugni
Chana Ghugni is a spicy curry made from black chickpeas. The chana is boiled and then cooked with onions, tomatoes, garlic, and local spices.
It is usually eaten for breakfast or as an evening snack with poha, paratha, or bun. It’s quick to make, filling, and extremely tasty.
7) Kadhi Badi
Kadhi Badi is a homely and comforting dish made with curd and besan (gram flour). The kadhi is tangy and smooth, and the badi are small fried dumplings added to it.
It is best served with plain rice and is a favorite during lunch. This dish is loved for its simplicity and soothing taste.
8) Malpua
Malpua is a soft, sweet pancake made from flour, sugar, and milk. Sometimes banana or cardamom is also added for extra flavour. After frying, it is dipped in sugar syrup.
Malpua is usually made during Holi and other family celebrations. It tastes even better when served with rabri. Soft, juicy, and rich, it’s a complete dessert on its own.
9) Chana Samosa
Chana Samosa is a unique street food of Bihar. It’s a regular potato-filled samosa topped with spicy black gram curry, chopped onions, and tangy chutneys.
This mix of crunch, spice, and tangy flavours makes it a perfect evening snack. You’ll find it easily at local markets, fairs, and railway stations.
10) Bhooja (Mudi Mix)
Bhooja or Mudi is Bihar’s most loved snack. It is made from puffed rice mixed with raw mustard oil, onions, green chilli, salt, peanuts, and sometimes boiled potatoes.
It’s a simple snack but full of flavour. Whether you’re at home, on a train, or walking through a haat bazaar, Bhooja is always there to munch on.
Final Thoughts
Bihari food is full of taste, heart, and memories. Every dish on this list carries a part of our culture, festivals, and everyday life. Whether it’s the smoky Litti Chokha or the sweet Thekua, these foods are more than just meals. They are part of who we are.
If you’ve tried any of these dishes, share your favorite one in the comments. And if not, what are you waiting for? Come taste the real flavour of Bihar.
