Food And Forests: Monsoon's Special Dishes Line Up

One of the most-cherished signs of this seasonal shift is the emergence of traditional foods such as Vedurukommu (bamboo shoots), Boddengu (sago worms, the larvae of the red palm beetle), and Isuka Kokkulu (wild monsoon mushrooms).

These are not merely ingredients; they are cultural markers that are deeply woven into the dietary, ecological, and spiritual fabric of tribal communities.

Chetti Bindu, head of the horticultural research station at Chintapalli, stated in an interview with the Deccan Chronicle, “For generations, tribal elders have passed down knowledge about where and how to forage these foods. This includes advice on the timing of collection, terrain, and preparation methods, forming an oral tradition that ensures both safety and sustainability.”

Their availability is fleeting, limited to just a few months each year, making them highly prized seasonal delicacies.

As the first rains soften the forest floor, tribal families rise early to gather these treasures before they disappear.

The appeal of these monsoon foods has now spread beyond the hills. People from the plains frequently travel to agency markets in Chintapalli and Araku to purchase these cherished items. Among the most sought-after items is Vedurukommu, which is sold by tribal vendors along the Ghat roads.

These tender bamboo shoots, harvested fresh from forest groves, are used to prepare flavourful dishes like 'Raaba' and nourishing curries.

S Naresh, a buyer, noted that a portion containing two to three bamboo shoots is sold for `70, and his family makes it a point to enjoy them at least once each season. The shoots begin to sprout in early July and remain available until December.

Initially consumed exclusively by tribal communities, bamboo shoots have gained popularity among non-tribal populations over time.

According to home science expert B Divya Sudha, this shift is driven not only by taste but also by a growing awareness of their health benefits. Bamboo shoots are known to be beneficial for those having chronic health conditions, including diabetes, high cholesterol, and constipation. Their low-fat content, high fibre and rich nutritional profile make them ideal for therapeutic diets.

Boiled bamboo shoots are particularly beneficial for those facing malnutrition and anaemia. They are rich in essential nutrients, including vitamin B, riboflavin, thiamine, phosphorus, potassium, and iron.

Divya Sudha emphasized their value for pregnant and lactating women, noting that they are increasingly featured in nutrition outreach programmes. At a millet festival she organised recently, tribal women showcased diverse preparations of bamboo shoots, from stir-fries to steamed dishes, offering attendees a taste of indigenous culinary wisdom.