World Bamboo Day is observed every year on September 18th to highlight the versatility and benefits of bamboo. This fast-growing plant is not only used for furniture, construction, and medicine but also for cooking. Bamboo-based dishes are popular in many parts of India and neighboring countries, combining unique flavors with health benefits.

Why Celebrate World Bamboo Day?
The World Bamboo Organization initiated this day to raise awareness about bamboo cultivation and its uses. India cultivates 136 species of bamboo, including Bambusa tulda, Bambusa balluca, Dendrocalamus asper, and Melocanna baccifera, among others. Bamboo plays a significant role in the economy, environment, and traditional cooking.

Delicious Dishes Cooked in Bamboo

• Bamboo Biryani: Hollow bamboo stems are filled with rice, meat, and spices, creating a fragrant biryani enjoyed in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Karnataka, and beyond.

• Fish in Bamboo: Marinate fish with spices, place it inside bamboo, and cook over charcoal for 30 minutes. The result is smoky, tender, and flavorful fish.

• Chicken in Bamboo: Bamboo-cooked chicken is tender and infused with a distinct aroma. Spiced chicken is sealed inside bamboo and cooked over coals for 30–40 minutes.

• Pittu: A Sri Lankan specialty, pittu is made from rice flour, coconut shavings, and coconut milk, steamed in bamboo skewers for 15–20 minutes, then sliced into rounds.

Health Benefits of Cooking in Bamboo
Cooking in bamboo adds nutritional value to food. Bamboo shoots are rich in fiber, aiding digestion and weight management. They also contribute to heart health, stronger bones, and a boosted immune system. The natural nutrients from bamboo shoots infuse into the food during cooking, making it both tasty and wholesome.