7 hyperlocal foods of Uttar Pradesh with GI-tag that one needs to try

Uttar Pradesh is often mentioned for its richness in history and culture, but the surprising fact is that it is also a hub of vibrant culinary heritage. Did you know there are many hyper local foods and ingredients that have received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, recognising their unique origin and traditional preparation. For the unversed, geographical indications, also known as GI tags, are signs that celebrate the specific geographical origin and possess qualities and characteristics that are essentially attributable to that place of origin. Scroll down to read the details of these foods and what makes them unique.

It is a symbol of hospitality and tradition in Benars or Varanasi and is known for its distinct flavour and aromatic fillings. It is prepared with special betel leaves and mix of sweet and savoury ingredients. The famous paan was granted GI tag in April 2023, certifying its unique origin, traditional preparation, and distinct flavor profile.

You must have had many guava variations, but this one from Allahabad has its own magic. It received the tag in 2007-8 and has a deep red pulp and reddish-green skin, with an intense flavour and aroma. It is known for being rich in pectin and having a high vitamin C content.

According to reports, this mango variety of Uttar Pradesh was awarded GI tag in 2009 and is native to Malihabad, UP. It is known for its intense aroma, sweetness, and fiberless pulp, and is a premium mango variety which originated near Lucknow in the 18th century. It is famed for its distinct elongated shape, golden-yellow skin, and exceptional aromatic sweetness.

This mango variety is native to Benaras or Varanasi and was awarded GI tag in April 2023. It is a medium-sized fruit with a vibrant green skin that remains greenish upon maturity. It is said to grown in areas like Chiraigaon, Baragaon, Harhua, and Chiraigaon blocks of Varanasi.

Popularly known as brinjal or eggplant, it is a popular variety from Varanasi and was awarded the GI tag in April 2023. Iyt is famous for its large size, unique taste, and minimal seeds. It is used to prepare the popular baigan bharta or bharwa baigan.

It is a traditional black rice variety from Eastern UP and was awarded GI tag in February 2023. It is a fine black-husked, aromatic rice that is small in grain size and known for its soft texture when cooked and it is moslty grown in Vindhya foothills of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, particularly Chandauli, which is considered a traditional hub for this variety.

It is an ancient, aromatic rice of UP that was awarded the GI tga in 2012-13. It is also called Buddha Rice and is known for its high iron/zinc content, low glycemic index. It is said to have been a gift from Gautam Buddha to the people of Kapilvastu.

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