Arunachal Pradesh's tribal dishes you need to try
What's the story
The tribal state of Arunachal Pradesh in northeast India boasts a vibrant culture and a distinctively delicious cuisine.
The street food in Arunachal is a whole different world of flavors, unlike anything else you'll find in India.
Every bite here is a tribute to the tribes' deep connection with nature and their traditions.
Bamboo shoots
Bamboo shoots: A tribal staple
Bamboo shoots are a staple in Arunachali cuisine and can be found in various forms on the streets of this northeastern state.
Whether fermented, pickled, or fresh, bamboo shoots add a tangy and slightly bitter taste to dishes.
They are commonly used in curries, chutneys, and even as a side dish. Prices for these delicacies start at around ₹50 per serving.
Thukpa
Thukpa: The comforting noodle soup
Thukpa is a Tibetan noodle soup that has migrated into Arunachal Pradesh's food culture due to the state's geographical closeness to Tibet.
This comforting meal features hand-pulled noodles simmered in a rich broth alongside vegetables.
It's particularly cherished during the winter season for its ability to warm you up from the inside.
And, a bowl of thukpa is priced at approximately ₹100.
Zan
Zan: The traditional porridge
Zan is a humble but hearty porridge prepared with millet or maize flour.
The flour is combined with water or milk and cooked until it achieves a semi-solid consistency.
It's traditionally accompanied by vegetable or side dishes, seasoned with the warming flavors of indigenous herbs such as ginger and garlic.
This meal embodies the essence of tribal culinary artistry, providing soul-satisfying comfort food for a mere ₹70 per serving.
Chura sabzi
Chura sabzi: The crunchy snack
Chura sabzi is a unique street snack prepared from fermented cheese.
The cheese is deep-fried until it's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
It's then combined with green leafy vegetables sauteed with indigenous spices, resulting in a flavor-packed experience for your taste buds at a mere ₹80 per serving.