Kotkoti (কটকটি) from Mahasthan (or Mohasthan) in Bogura, Bangladesh, is a famous traditional dry sweet snack with a long-standing cultural and culinary significance in the region. Often sold near the historic Mahasthangarh archaeological site, it’s both a local treat and a popular souvenir for visitors.
Kotkoti is a hard, brittle sweet, typically made from a mixture of flour (usually wheat or rice), sugar or jaggery, and sometimes a bit of oil or ghee. It is:
Deep-fried or baked, then allowed to harden into a crunchy, dry form.
Sometimes flavored with cardamom or fennel seeds for added aroma.
Quality | Description |
---|---|
Texture | Hard, crunchy, and brittle — it "snaps" when you bite into it. |
Taste | Sweet (sometimes mildly spiced), often with a hint of caramelized sugar or jaggery. |
Shelf Life | Long-lasting when stored in dry conditions — great as a travel snack or gift. |
Appearance | Usually rectangular or diamond-shaped, golden brown in color. |
Mahasthan Kotkoti is a heritage snack—associated with rural fairs, religious festivals, and local tourism.
Commonly enjoyed with tea, especially in the afternoon.
Often bought by pilgrims and tourists visiting the Mahasthangarh historical site, adding to its nostalgic and cultural value.
Sold in local sweet shops or roadside stalls in and around Mahasthan/Bogura.
Sometimes labeled as “Mahasthaner Kotkoti” to emphasize its origin and authenticity.
Mahasthan's Kotkoti is a crispy, sweet, dry food with roots in Bangladeshi tradition. Simple in ingredients but rich in flavor and history, it's a must-try for those exploring the culinary heritage of the Bogura region.