Litti Chokha is a hearty, wholesome, and flavorful dish that forms the cornerstone of Bihar’s traditional cuisine. The combination of roasted wheat dough balls (litti) stuffed with sattu (roasted gram flour) and paired with spicy mashed vegetables (chokha) makes for a satisfying meal. However, like most traditional dishes, Litti Chokha tastes even better when paired with the right side dishes to balance its flavors and textures.
Whether you’re looking to enhance the dish for a festive meal or simply want to enjoy a wholesome, balanced lunch, this post will guide you through some of the best side dishes to serve with Litti Chokha.
1. Pickles (Achar)
The Importance of Pickles
No traditional Indian meal is complete without a side of achar (pickle), and Litti Chokha is no exception. The spicy and tangy profile of pickles pairs wonderfully with the smoky and savory flavors of Litti and Chokha. Pickles are rich in probiotics and add a burst of flavor that cuts through the heaviness of the meal.
Types of Pickles to Serve:
- Mango Achar (Raw Mango Pickle): This classic North Indian pickle brings out the tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor that complements the earthy flavors of Litti Chokha.
- Lemon Achar: A zesty lemon pickle with a hint of mustard seeds and fenugreek adds a sharp, bright contrast to the dish.
- Chili Achar: If you love heat, this fiery pickle made from green chilies will ramp up the spice levels and elevate the dish.
Why It Works:
Pickles have a sharp, tangy taste that adds depth to the smokiness of the littis and balances the richness of the chokha.
2. Kachumber Salad
Freshness and Crunch
A kachumber salad made with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, green chilies, and a splash of lemon juice is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that pairs beautifully with the heavy and savory nature of Litti Chokha.
Variations:
- Add fresh coriander for a burst of freshness.
- Include carrots or radish for additional crunch and mild sweetness.
- Cucumber raita or a simple yogurt dressing can be drizzled over the salad for added creaminess.
Why It Works:
The fresh, tangy flavors of the kachumber help to cut through the richness of Litti Chokha and provide a light, refreshing contrast to the hearty meal.
3. Fried Green Chilies
Simple and Spicy
Fried green chilies are an excellent side to serve with Litti Chokha for those who love spice. Whole green chilies are shallow-fried with mustard oil and a sprinkle of salt. The crispy exterior and spicy kick work wonderfully with the earthy, smoky flavors of the littis and the mashed vegetables in the chokha.
Why It Works:
The heat from the fried green chilies gives the dish an extra kick and complements the smokiness of the Litti, while the crunchiness adds texture to the meal.
4. Yogurt or Raita
Creaminess to Balance the Spices
A cool and creamy side like yogurt or raita offers a perfect balance to the spicy and rich flavors of Litti Chokha. The tanginess of yogurt can help to neutralize some of the heat, while the smooth texture complements the robust flavor of the dish.
Variations of Raita:
- Cucumber Raita: Grated cucumber mixed with yogurt, cumin powder, and salt offers a cooling effect and adds refreshing crunch.
- Mint Raita: A blend of yogurt, fresh mint leaves, and a dash of cumin powder can add a fresh, herbal flavor that contrasts the heaviness of the meal.
Why It Works:
The cool and creamy nature of yogurt and raita balances the spiciness of the Litti Chokha and offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the dish.
5. Baingan Bharta (Smoked Eggplant Curry)
Smoky and Flavorful
Another perfect side dish for Litti Chokha is Baingan Bharta—a flavorful, smoked eggplant curry. This dish is made by roasting eggplants over an open flame or in the oven, peeling off the skin, and mashing the pulp with onions, tomatoes, and spices. It’s another smoky dish that pairs well with the roasted Litti.
Why It Works:
The smoked flavor of Baingan Bharta harmonizes with the charred and roasted notes in Litti. The dish also provides a creamy texture that balances the earthiness of the sattu in the littis.
6. Lemon Pickled Onions
Zesty and Sweet
Lemon-pickled onions are a simple yet vibrant side dish to serve with Litti Chokha. Sliced onions are marinated in lemon juice, salt, and sugar, creating a tangy and slightly sweet combination that balances the spicy and savory elements of the main dish.
Why It Works:
The tangy and sweet pickled onions bring a burst of flavor that complements the otherwise earthy and rich nature of Litti Chokha. They also add crunch and brightness to the meal.
7. Chaas (Buttermilk)
Refreshing and Digestive
Chaas, or buttermilk, is a cooling drink that pairs perfectly with any spicy Indian meal. Made from diluted yogurt, cumin powder, and salt, chaas helps with digestion and provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of Litti Chokha.
Why It Works:
The cooling properties of chaas provide a refreshing relief from the heat of the spices in Litti Chokha. Plus, it aids digestion, making it a great addition to a heavy meal.
8. Masala Papad
Crunchy and Flavorful
Masala papad, a crisp, deep-fried papad topped with spices and fresh herbs, is a fun, crunchy side dish to serve with Litti Chokha. The crunchiness and spicy masala provide a nice contrast to the soft and hearty textures of the main dish.
Why It Works:
The crunch and spiciness of masala papad enhance the robustness of Litti Chokha while providing a delightful textural contrast.
9. Aloo Tamatar Ki Sabzi (Potato-Tomato Curry)
Hearty and Comforting
If you want to add a warm and comforting curry to your meal, Aloo Tamatar Ki Sabzi (Potato-Tomato Curry) is an excellent option. This simple curry made from boiled potatoes, tomatoes, and basic spices like cumin and turmeric is a mildly spicy and comforting addition to the meal.
Why It Works:
The soft and mildly spicy potatoes in the curry complement the earthy flavors of Litti Chokha and provide a hearty and filling side dish.
10. Coriander Chutney
Tangy and Refreshing
A fresh coriander chutney made from coriander leaves, green chilies, garlic, and lemon juice can be a perfect accompaniment to Litti Chokha. This spicy and tangy chutney adds a zesty punch to the meal and enhances the flavors of both Litti and Chokha.
Why It Works:
The herbal and spicy notes of the chutney brighten the flavors of Litti Chokha, adding a burst of freshness to each bite.
📝 Conclusion
While Litti Chokha itself is a complete and flavorful meal, serving it with the right side dishes can elevate the experience. Whether you choose crunchy pickles, a refreshing salad, or a cooling drink like chaas, the side dishes add variety and balance, complementing the robust flavors of Litti Chokha.
The key to creating the perfect meal is balancing spicy, tangy, creamy, and crunchy elements that enhance the earthy and smoky flavors of this traditional Bihari dish. Try pairing one or more of these side dishes with your next Litti Chokha meal, and you’ll have a feast that is both satisfying and delightful!