Handia
Traditional fermented rice beer that is sacred to tribal communities. This mildly alcoholic beverage is prepared during festivals and special occasions, symbolizing community bonding and spiritual connection.
Health Benefits
Ingredients
Preferably day-old rice
Available at local markets
Filtered or boiled water
Traditional clay pot preferred
For additional sweetness
Cooking Steps
Prepare the Rice Base
Cook rice and let it cool completely to room temperature. The rice should be slightly overcooked and sticky.
💡 Use broken rice or old rice for better fermentation
Crush the Handia Tablet
Take the handia tablet (fermentation starter) and crush it into fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
💡 Handia tablets contain natural yeast and herbs
Mix and Ferment
Mix the cooled rice with crushed handia tablet thoroughly. Transfer to earthen pot, cover with cloth and ferment for 3-5 days.
💡 Keep in a warm, dark place for best fermentation
Strain and Serve
After fermentation, add clean water and strain through a fine cloth. The liquid is your handia.
💡 Serve immediately for best taste
Cultural Significance
Handia is not just a beverage but a sacred drink offered to deities during Sarhul and other tribal festivals. It represents community bonding, hospitality, and spiritual connection with ancestors. The preparation of Handia is often a communal activity that brings families and neighbors together, strengthening social bonds.
Serving Suggestions
- •Serve in traditional clay cups for authentic experience
- •Best enjoyed with tribal snacks like pitha or dhuska
- •Consume within 24 hours of straining
