Alubhukara balance the bad property of free radicals and secure against the development of health conditions like asthma, arthritis, heart stroke and cancer. The antioxidants found in this fruit preserve the body from free radicals that increases the aging process.
Alubhukara (Dried Fruit) – A Traditional Odia Sun-Dried Delicacy
Alubhukara, in the context of dried fruits, refers to a unique Odia preparation where seasonal fruits are naturally preserved through sun-drying. Unlike the crispy potato snack of the same name, this version transforms fresh fruits into chewy, intensely flavored treats that capture the essence of Odisha’s traditional food preservation techniques.
Made with local fruits like mango (amba), pineapple, jackfruit, or even berries
Sun-dried for days until leathery yet slightly pliable
Naturally sweet with concentrated flavors, sometimes enhanced with honey or jaggery
Preserved without artificial additives, relying on Odisha’s tropical climate
Fruit Selection – Only fully ripe, unblemished fruits are chosen
Preparation – Peeled, sliced, or cubed (some varieties kept whole like berries)
Pre-treatment – Often blanched or dipped in honey-water solution
Drying Process – Laid on bamboo mats under direct sunlight for 3-5 days
Storage – Kept in airtight clay pots with neem leaves as natural preservatives
Ancient Preservation – Dates back to when refrigeration was unavailable
Festive Importance – Prepared especially for Raja Parba and other harvest festivals
Off-season Nutrition – Provides fruit nutrients during monsoon/winter months
Aamba Alubhukara – Tangy dried mango strips
Pana Alubhukara – Sweet pineapple rings
Kadali Alubhukara – Banana chunks with jaggery coating
Kaintha Alubhukara – Wild berries preserved whole
✓ Natural Energy Boost – High concentration of natural sugars
✓ Rich in Fiber – Aids digestion better than fresh fruit
✓ Vitamin Retention – Maintains most vitamins except water-soluble ones
✓ Probiotic Qualities – Some varieties develop beneficial surface cultures
Oven-dried versions for urban households
Chocolate-dipped fruit alubhukara as gourmet gifts
Spicy-tangy variants with chaat masala for contemporary palates
As prasad in temples
Paired with curd rice for contrasting textures
Chopped into pithas (traditional cakes) for added sweetness
Carried as travel food due to non-perishable nature
This traditional Odia dried fruit preparation represents the ingenious ways regional cuisines harness nature’s bounty. More than just preserved food, alubhukara carries the warmth of Odisha’s sun and the wisdom of generations in each chewy bite. Its revival today speaks to the growing appreciation for sustainable, additive-free food traditions.
