- By Bornika Das
- Tue, 15 Apr 2025 01:12 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Panta Bhaat Pairings: Panta bhaat holds a special position among the people of Eastern India. It is a quintessential summer dish that is enjoyed in every household for its humble yet hearty taste. Panta bhaat has cooling properties due to its fermented yet fresh nature. Often referred to as the poor’s man meal, this rice dish has transcended its frugal roots to become a seasonal delicacy. In Bengal, Panta bhaat is usually consumed on Poila Baishak, that is, the Bengal New Year. However, Panta bhaat seems to be incomplete without its delicious pairings. Without certain dishes, this fermented rice cannot make it to the table of the Eastern Indian’s households.
What Is Panta Bhaat?
Panta bhaat literally means soaked rice. It is made by taking leftover cooked rice and soaking it in water overnight and eating it the next morning. Throughout the night, the rice gets fermented and is cold, light and tangy in nature. Although panta bhaat is widely consumed on Poila Baisakh, it has found its way into many homes as a perfect summer breakfast staple.
As Poila Baishak is held during the summer season, the cooling and hydrating properties of Panta bhaat make it an ideal dish to beat the heat. Besides, the fermentation releases beneficial gut-friendly bacteria, making it excellent for digestion and cooling for the body, ideal for surviving the summer heat. The overnight soaking also enhances the bioavailability of nutrients like iron and potassium.
What brings the bland base of Panta bhaat to life is its accompaniments. It elevates rustic charm into a festive feast. Celebrate Noboborsho with the earthy aroma of Panta bhaat along with a wide range of condiments, starting from pickles, fritters, mashed veggies and even fresh herbs. Here’s a list of must-try pairings to eat with Panta bhaat to make your Poila Baisakh treat worth it.
Condiments To Pair With Panta Bhaat
Aloo Bharta
This is one of the most classic pairings to eat with Panta bhaat. Aloo bharta is made with boiled potatoes that are mashed and flavoured with mustard oil, green chillies, onions and a touch of salt. The punch of raw mustard oil balances the soreness of the rice, and the softness of the mashed potatoes matches the texture of the soaked rice, providing a comforting mush of fire and flavour.
Shutki Bhuna Or Fish Fry
For those who love Panta bhaat with a bold kick, shutki bhuna is the ideal pairing. Shutki bhuna, the fried fermented dry fish that is especially enjoyed by people in Bangladesh and rural Bengal. The funk of the dry dish meets the sourness of the rice, complementing each other. Moreover, fried fish of all kinds, from ilish to porsche, mourala and others and commonly enjoyed as accompaniments with Panta bhaat. The crispiness and salted taste of the fish fries balances the coolness of the rice and water.
Green Chillies And Onions
Panta bhaat is often enjoyed with fresh green chillies that are served either whole or crushed along with finely sliced onions. These pairings are considered staples and are not just toppings but heat-bangers. For extra flavour, add a dash of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Achaar Can Be Paired With Panta Bhaat (Image Credits: Canva)
Achaar
With the summer season, achaar is that condiment that is widely used in every household. Aachar or pickle, makes its way to the summer palate, providing a refreshing treat. While some prefer tangy mango pickles, others opt for garlic or chilli varities. The oil from the achaar alone is enough to make the bland rice flavourful. In Bihar and Jharkhand, spicy red chilli pickles or nimbu achaar is the go-to experience.
Daal-Er-Bora
This is another perfect pairing that is enjoyed with Panta bhaat. Daal, which refers to lentils, is ground into a coarse paste and deep-fried and served either warm or cold. Their crunch of daal-er-bora or lentil fritters adds texture while their spice adds complexity to the bland panta bhaat.