Bodo Ondla: Traditional Bodo Gravy Dish
1. Overview
Definition
- A gravy dish made from rice flour, bamboo shoots, and meat (chicken/pork).
- Lightly cooked with oil and spices, offering a flavorful yet simple dish.
Cultural Significance
- Reflects agricultural practices & dietary habits of the Bodo people.
- Bamboo shoots highlight their connection to local resources & traditional cooking.
2. Ingredients
- Rice Flour – Forms the base of the dish.
- Bamboo Shoots – Adds a unique flavor.
- Meat (Chicken/Pork) – Common protein addition; can be made vegetarian.
- Spices – Includes garlic, ginger, turmeric, salt.
- Oil – Used for cooking & flavor enhancement.
3. Preparation Method
- Preparation – Gather all ingredients.
- Cooking Process
- Heat oil in a pan.
- Sauté bamboo shoots lightly.
- Add chicken/pork and cook until done.
- Mix rice flour with water (slurry) & add to pan.
- Stir continuously until the mixture thickens into a gravy.
- Season with spices.
- Serving – Typically served with rice as a complete meal.
4. Historical Context
- Bodo people have a rich history of agriculture & food preservation.
- Traditionally practiced shifting cultivation, utilizing local resources effectively.
- Ondla showcases their adaptive cooking techniques developed over generations.
5. Geographical Indication (GI) Tag
- Received GI tag in 2024 to promote Bodo traditional products.
- Enhances marketability & preservation of indigenous food practices.
6. Conclusion
- Bodo Ondla is a symbol of Bodo culinary heritage & sustainability.
- GI tag highlights its importance in Assam’s diverse food culture.