What is "Ludi Fida"? Why is it so so significant in Rohingyan food culture?
In the heart of festive celebrations and cultural traditions, the traditional rice bread featured in this recipe transcends its role as a mere culinary delight. Instead, it is a tangible link to the past, a cultural legacy handed down through generations.
“Ludi” in the Rohingya language signifies “Bread,” while “Fida” translates to “Cake” or “Pancake.” Consequently, the combination “Ludi Fida” can be interpreted as “Bread Cake” or “Rice Bread”. Typically, a pan is employed in baking this bread, which is why it is categorized as a cake in the Rohingya language.
“Ludi” in the Rohingya language signifies “Bread,” while “Fida” translates to “Cake” or “Pancake.” Consequently, the combination “Ludi Pida” can be interpreted as “Bread Cake” or “Rice Bread”.
This flat rice bread is uniquely positioned in various celebrations, particularly during Eid-al-Qurban and Eid-al-Fitr. Its versatility serves as an accompaniment that seamlessly complements both savory and sweet dishes, from enhancing the flavors of beef or chicken curry to being the perfect combination in Eid-al-Qurban with sacrificial meat. For Eid-al-Fitir with Jaggery and Halwa, this bread is more than a side—it is an integral part of the festive feast.
“Ludi Fida” is an integral part of the festive feast of Rohingyas .
"Ludi Fida" is a representation of communal celebrations
The association of this bread with Eid-ul-Qurban and Eid al-Fitr adds layers of festive significance. It symbolizes not just a dish on the table but a representation of communal celebrations and cherished moments shared with loved ones. Crafted from essential ingredients—rice powder, salt, and water—this bread’s simplicity belies its rich and satisfying taste. It is a testament to culinary ingenuity in using minimal components to create something extraordinary.
Rohingyan Traditional Recipe of "Ludi Fida"
Ingredients needed for “Ludi Fida":
– Rice blended flour 1.5 cups,
– Salt: In moderation
– Water: In quantity
Prepare the “Ludi Fida" Dough:
– Heat a pot with 1/2 cup of water on the stove. Once the water boils, add salt to taste. Add 1.5 cups of rice powder to the boiling water and cook covered on low flame for 5 minutes. Covering the rice powder ensures thorough cooking.
Cooling Down Dough:
– After 5 minutes of covered cooking, remove from the heat. Stir the mixture well using a wooden spoon or stick. If needed, add a little water. Let it cool for 10 minutes. It’s crucial not to let it cool too much, as working with the dough is most effective when it’s still warm.
Knead the Dough and Prepare for Rolling:
– Knead and squeeze the dough with your hands to form a loose ball. Continue squeezing and pressing the dough to incorporate all the flour in the bowl. Rub the sides of the bowl with the dough to gather the last bits of flour.
– Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface. Coat your hands with a bit of flour to prevent sticking. Fold, turn, and push the dough until it feels springy under your hand, resulting in a smooth and lively dough.
Shape the Bread, Bake then Enjoy your "Ludi Fida":
– Cut the kneaded dough into small pieces and shape them into round balls. Place the balls on a tray and cover them with a wet cloth for a while.
Roll and Bake:
– Roll each ball into a thin, flatbread using a rolling pin on a floured surface. Cook the rice flour flatbreads on a non-stick skillet over medium heat until both sides are thoroughly cooked.
Serve and Enjoy:
– Your perfect rice bread is ready to be served! This traditional bread has been passed down through generations, often enjoyed with beef or chicken curry during Eid-ul-Qurban and paired with Solid Date Plum Jaggery and halwa during Eid al-Fitr celebrations.
“Ludi Fida” always will be in heart of festive celebrations and cultural traditions of Rohingyas.
–(photo by Dari_Dapur)
