From winter, with love: 4 comfort foods across Bangladesh

Bangladesh's winter is a time for culinary delights, with each district offering its distinct flavours and traditions. From spicy and savoury to sweet and tangy, these winter foods are a true reflection of the country's rich and diverse culture.

 Maera Pitha

As the cool winter breeze flows through the fields of Chandpur, the sweet aroma of freshly steamed Maera Pitha fills the air. This simple yet loved winter treat has been warming hearts for generations.

This sweet dish is made of rice flour, coconut, sugar/jaggery and, sometimes, milk. It is not just a dish but also a reflection of the culinary culture of Chandpur. Whether enjoyed with family or as a warm snack on a cold evening, Maera Pitha has a special place in the hearts of the people. 

Chitaruti

In  Jessore, Chitaruti is more than just a meal. It can be eaten with various types of bhortas, chicken, duck or beef curries. Chitaruti is made from simple everyday ingredients: flour, water and a pinch of salt. The dough is kneaded to a soft consistency and then rolled out into thick, round flatbreads. 

The secret to its texture lies in the cooking. Each piece is placed on a hot griddle, brushed with ghee, and cooked until golden, crispy layers form.

I'll never forget winter mornings at my grandmother's house in Jessore, filled with the sound of sizzling Chitaruti on the stove. The joy of tearing off a warm piece and dipping it into spicy mutton curry was the highlight of those mornings. For me, Chitaruti is more than food; it's nostalgia. 

Powa Pitha

 Powa Pitha is made with just a handful of ingredients, such as puffed rice, jaggery and a touch of ghee – and a famous offering from Madaripur. The puffed rice is gently mixed with melted jaggery to form a sticky sweet base, which is then pressed into small round moulds and left to set. After that, it is dipped in oil and must be fried.

As you take a bite, the puffed rice provides a satisfying crunch, while the sweet jaggery fills your mouth with a deep caramelised flavour. Coconut can be added, too, which makes it the perfect comfort food for chilly winter days.

Athikka Pitha

Also known as "Kola pitha", a delicious tradition from the vibrant city of Chittagong. Tanbin Irfat shares, "This pitha takes me back home and reminds me of my Nanu, who is no longer with us. She always made sure I had this every winter break."

This food is made from a blend of rice flour, jaggery, coconut, banana and a pinch of salt, with banana being the main ingredient in this dish. The mixture is left to rest, allowing the flavours to blend. Then, it is wrapped in kolapata (banana leaves) and steamed to perfection. This process helps the ingredients come together beautifully, and it's best enjoyed steaming hot.