Assam is a state located at the North-Eastern side of India. It is known for its diverse culture where various different tribes like Bodos, Karbis, etc. live throughout the state. Due to this, the culture becomes colourful and unique. Along with the unique culture and dresses, Assam’s traditional foods are also one of a kind. Let us discuss about the popular foods of Assam in detail.
The Influence of Assamese Culinary
The culinary of Assam is heavily influenced by its geographical, cultural and historical trade routes. It is a unique blend of indigenous, Tibetan, and South-east Asian flavours. The use of local ingredients, such as fish, meat and a variety of herbs and spices are a characteristic of authentic Assamese food recipes.
Traditional Assamese Dishes :-
1. Masoor Tenga: Masoor Tenga is a tangy fish curry which is a staple in Assamese Cuisine. The word “Tenga” means sour, and this dish is known for its light and refreshing sour taste. Common souring ingredients include tomatoes, lemon, raw mango and the local Elephant Apple (Ou tenga). The fish is cooked with minimal spices, which allows the sourness to be the star of the dish. Masoor Tenga is believed to aid in digestion and is often enjoyed during summer.
2. Pitika: Pitika is a simple yet flavourful dish made by mashing boiled or charred vegetables or fish with mustard oil, green chillies, onion or coriander leaves. Common ingredients for Pitika include potatoes, eggplants, and fish. This dish is often served as a side dish with rice and is cherished for its rustic and comforting taste. It is inseparable part of all traditional food festivals in Assam.
3. Khar: A quintessential Assamese dish that is both an ingredient of healthy Assamese food recipes and also a type of preparation. The main ingredient, which is also called Khar, is derived from the filtered water of charred banana peels. The alkaline extract is believed to have digestive properties. Khar can be made with various ingredients such as raw papaya, pulses, or fish. The dish is typically served at the beginning of a heavy meal and is known for its unique flavour that is both appetizing and refreshing.
4. Dhekia Xaak: Among the popular foods of Assam, the Dhekia Xaak is made with “Dhekia” a type of Fern, Mustard oil and a variety of Spices.
5. Pitha: The popular rice cake is made to celebrate the festival Bihu and other occasions. It's made with glutinous rice flour, water and a variety of sweet or salty fillings, such as coconut, sesame seeds, or fish. This is also a staple in traditional food festivals in Assam.
6. Pani Hamuk: Pani Hamuk, or water snails are a unique delicacy in Assam. The snails are cooked with pumpkins or other vegetables and flavoured with local spices. The dish is an acquired taste but is loved by those who enjoy it.
7. Sunga Pitha: It is a traditional Assamese dish made with “Sunga” which is a type of Bamboo Shoot, mustard oil and a variety of spices. The procedure to make it is among the healthy Assamese food recipes.
8. Baanhgajor Lagot Kukura: A traditional Assamese chicken curry cooked with bamboo shoots adds a distinct flavour and crunch to the curry, making it a favourite among the locals. It is often enjoyed with rice, and is a must try for anyone exploring Assamese cuisine.
9. Kardooy Maach: A traditional fish dish in Assam made with fish, mustard oil and spices.
10. Fish and Meat preparation :- Assamese Cuisine features a wide range of fish and meat dishes. Fish are often cooked in a light broth with minimal spices, allowing the natural flavours to shine. Meat dishes such as pork with bamboo shoots, or chicken with banana flower are cooked with local herbs and spices, creating rich and aromatic flavours. These are among the most popular foods of Assam.
11. Duck meat curry: Duck meat is another favourite in Assamese cuisine. The meat is cooked with Ash Gourd, or sometimes with a mix of spices and herbs. Duck meat curry is rich and flavourful, often enjoyed during the winter months. The dish can be enjoyed in the traditional food festivals in Assam.
12. Paro Mangxo :- Paro Mangxo, or pigeon meat curry is a traditional delicacy in Assam. Pigeon meat is cooked with a variety of spices and sometimes is paired with banana flower or other vegetables. This dish is particularly popular during festivals and special occasions.
Let us now discuss about the various Assamese sweets.
Traditional Assamese Sweets and desserts
Assam is also popular for its unique sweets which are made with local ingredients, such as milk, sugar, and a variety of nuts and spices. Some of the Assamese sweets which can be found as street food in Assam are:
1. Bora Chaulor Payas :- It is a delicious rice pudding made from sticky rice, milk, bay leaves, and cardamoms. This dessert is thick in texture and has a sweet, creamy taste. It is often garnished with nuts and raisins, making it a rich and satisfying treat.
2. Narikol Pitha: Narikol Pitha is a sweet delicacy which is made from roasted coconut and sugar mixed with flour and milk. The mixture is shaped into balls or flattened before being fried. It remains fresh for many days and is a popular choice during festivals.
3. Tekeli Pitha: Tekeli Pitha is a steamed rice cake made from rice flour, coconut, sugar and milk-powder. Sometimes ground cardamoms or oranges are added to enhance the flavour. This pitha is steamed on a hearth furnace, giving it a unique texture and taste.
4. Khaja: Khaja, a dessert originating in the eastern part of India, is also popular in Assam. It is made from layered dough, deep-fried, and soaked in sugar syrup. The result is a crisp, flaky sweet that is both light and indulgent.
5. Bokakhat Pera: Bokakhat Pera is a famous sweet from the town of Bokakhat in Assam. It is known for its rich, creamy texture and delicious taste. It is made primarily from milk and sugar. These pedas are flavoured with cardamom and often garnished with nuts.
Now let's look at the various beverages that the Assamese people enjoy :-
Traditional Assamese Beverages
Assam is famous for its teas which are grown in the state's tea gardens. The traditional beverages are:
1. Assam Tea: A strong, malty tea grown in the state's tea gardens.
2. Jol Moley: A spicy drink, made with ginger, garlic, and spices.
3. Aam Pora: A sweet drink made with mango, sugar, and various spices.
4. Lassi: A yogurt-based drink made with yogurt, sugar, milk, and various spices.
Assam's traditional dishes, sweets, and beverages showcase its rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions and make Assam popular all over the world. So, whether it's the spicy flavors of Masoor Tenga or the sweet taste of Narikolor Laru, Assamese cuisine is sure to make every food lover drool no matter if they are inside and outside of awesome Assam. Apart from the taste, the nutritional benefits of Assamese dishes are also immense.
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