The steamed bun that is Himachal Pradesh’s favourite Grace

Fermented superfoods like kombucha (fermented tea), kimchi (fermented vegetables), kefir (cultured dairy product), and probiotic yoghurt are very popular for their health benefits. A unique fermented steamed bun from Himachal Pradesh, ‘siddu’, could …

Siddu is a popular dish in Himachal Pradesh, and it is often consumed during winters with pure ghee throughout the state to keep the body warm and provide energy. Usually, it’s served with fresh mint chutney or dal. Different variations of this trad…

Usually, it’s served with fresh mint chutney or dal. Different variations of this traditional wheat-based fermented bread are prepared in the upper hilly regions such as Kullu, Manali, Shimla, Mandi, and Rohru during special occasions or celebratory …

Neter Singh, an executive chef at the Renest River Country Resort, Manali, mentions that when he was growing up in Himachal Pradesh, his mother prepared siddu during local festivals. It was a treat for everyone at home.

“Siddu is a special dish for every pahadi. It brings back memories of special events and can be prepared with different fillings. The filling can be a mix of poppy seeds, walnuts, cashews, spices and legumes or a paste of dry fruits with sugar. Many …

While the basic preparation methods are almost similar, the siddu prepared in the Shimla district is mostly oval, and the ones from the Kullu district are in disc shapes. Whole wheat flour (atta) is used as dough for the base and sometimes combined with …

Siddu is a perfect option for vegans as they can replace ghee with dal or organic jaggery for complete nutrition. It is excellent in taste, but its familiarity is limited compared to other Indian cuisines. The two common ways to prepare Siddu are in …