Baji (food) facts for kids
Typical Newari Choila, spicy and hot
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| Place of origin | Nepal |
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Baji (Nepal Bhasa: बजि, Nepali: चिउरा, chiura) is a special type of flattened rice eaten in Nepal. Most people in Nepal call it "chiura." But in the Kathmandu Valley, the Newar people call it "Baji."
Rice is a very important food in Nepal, just like in other parts of South Asia. It's eaten every day and used in many festivals and special events. Chiura is a popular snack for farmers and workers in the countryside. It's made by pounding rice until it's flat. You can eat it with yogurt, curry, or meat. Sometimes, people enjoy chiura with tea as a snack in the morning while working in the fields.
Chiura also plays a special role in traditional Nepali wedding ceremonies. It's often part of the gifts given to the bride's family by the groom's family. After the main wedding ceremony, when the bride goes to the groom's house, there's a "pounded rice ceremony." The bride and groom sit together, and the bride is given the chiura. The groom then asks the bride to share the chiura with him. This tradition shows how important sharing food is in their new life together.
Types of Baji
There are two main types of Baji:
- Red Baji (Nepal Bhasa: ह्यांगु बजि Hyangu Baji): This type uses reddish flattened rice.
- White Baji (Nepal Bhasa: तुयु बजि Tuyu Baji): This type uses white flattened rice.
How Baji is Eaten
People usually eat Baji during the day. It's often served with lentil soup or other vegetable dishes. It's a main food served at big Newari Festivals and parties. Many people think the red type of Baji tastes better. A special dish called Samaybaji is often eaten during Newari festivals.
See also
In Spanish: Poha para niños
