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The Ziro Festival just took place between September 28 and October 3. As the festival showcases the Indian as well as the global independent music scene, we also learn about the cultural diversity and heritage of the northeastern Indian state. With the festival’s aim towards promoting the indigenous tribes of the area, we get to discover the rich and diverse cuisine that is a part of these tribes. With a vibrant culinary scene and local flavours, the regional cuisine of Arunachal Pradesh is worth experiencing. Here are some of the best dishes from Arunachal Pradesh that you must try.
Regional dishes of Arunachal Pradesh to try
1. Bamboo shoot
Bamboo shoots are a major part of the regional delicacies in the cuisine of Andhra Pradesh. It is a famous food here that you must try. The traditional Bamboo Shoot is made with delicate bamboo, which is marinated with baking soda and fresh spices, and cooked over a low fire. The local people of Arunachal Pradesh have bamboo shoots as a side dish, which is served alongside steamed rice or roti. Bamboo shoots can be made into pickles, stir-fried or had as a curry.
2. Zan
Zan is a traditional dish of Arunachal Pradesh which is prepared from nutritious millet flour. It is a dish similar to porridge, made from millet flour or rice flour. A popular dish among the members of the Adi community, Zan is a comfort food. An extremely simple dish, it serves as a great option for breakfast or a light meal. Zan can be relished alongside pickles or vegetables.
3. Gyapa khazi
Gyapa Khazi is a traditional, meat-based dish of Arunachal Pradesh which is commonly prepared with pork. It is a spicy and flavourful fermented soya bean curry served alongside rice and other staple dishes of the area. Prepared with ingredients such as ginger, garlic, onions, chilli peppers and spices this dish is sure to tantalise your taste buds. Gyapa Khazi is a unique dish of the region which represents the local flavours of Arunachal Pradesh.
4. Dung Po
Dung Po is a famous dish in Arunachal Pradesh prepared from rice. It is a local dish cooked in two brass utensils. The inner pot is bottomless and the rice is filled in a pocket of leaves to prevent it from scattering, while the outer pot is filled with water to generate steam. The rice once cooked is wrapped in leaves before serving. This dish has an amazing aroma which is enough to make you hungry.
5. Chura Sabji
Chura Sabji is a curry prepared from fermented cheese. The cheese is usually made from either yak or cow’s milk. It is a signature dish of Arunachal Pradesh and truly authentic to the region. The king chilli flakes are an important ingredient while preparing the Chura Sabji, which makes it a spicy yet delicious delicacy. Served alongside steamed rice, this dish will leave your mouth filled with flavours long after you are done eating.
6. Pehak
Pehak is a side dish delicacy of Arunachal Pradesh. It is a type of spicy chutney prepared from fermented soya beans and king chilli. Tasting best when served alongside steamed rice, Pehak is surely a testimony to the local flavours of the region.
7. Apong
Apong is a traditional rice beer of Arunachal Pradesh. It is a special local drink which is served during festivals, social gatherings and other celebrations. Apong is made from fermenting rice and yeast and takes up to a few days or weeks to prepare. It is a mildly alcoholic drink, with a distinct sour flavour. Serving Apong is a way of bonding for the members of the community and symbolises hospitality and friendship. It is served in bamboo containers known as ‘patta’.
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